Canola oil is derived from the seeds of the canola plant, scientifically known as Brassica napus. This plant is a member of the mustard family and was developed in Canada through selective breeding of rapeseed varieties to create an oil with a low erucic acid content. The term "canola" is a combination of "Canada" and "ola," meaning oil. Today, canola oil is widely used in cooking and food production due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point (around 400°F or 204°C) (Britannica).

The process of making canola oil involves several steps, ensuring that the oil is safe for consumption and retains its beneficial properties:

1. Seed Cleaning

Canola seeds are first cleaned to remove impurities such as plant stalks, dirt, and other foreign materials.

2. Seed Conditioning and Flaking

The cleaned seeds are then conditioned by heating them slightly to about 95°F (35°C). They are subsequently flaked using roller mills, which ruptures the cell walls of the seeds, making it easier to extract the oil.

3. Seed Cooking

The flaked seeds are cooked in steam-heated cookers for 15 to 20 minutes at temperatures ranging from 176°F to 221°F (80°C to 105°C). This step helps to further prepare the seeds for oil extraction.

4. Pressing

After cooking, the seed flakes are pressed in screw presses or expellers, which remove about 50-60% of the oil from the flakes.

5. Solvent Extraction

The remaining seed flakes, which still contain 18-20% oil, undergo a solvent extraction process using hexane. This chemical helps to extract the remaining oil efficiently.

6. Desolventizing

The hexane is then removed from the extracted oil through a heating process, ensuring that the final product is safe for consumption.

7. Refining the Oil

The extracted oil undergoes refining, which may include processes like steam distillation, exposure to phosphoric acid, and filtration through acid-activated clays. This refining process improves the oil's quality, removing impurities and enhancing its shelf life (Healthline).

Canola oil is often praised for its health benefits, largely due to its favorable fatty acid composition. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content:

Saturated Fat: 7%
Monounsaturated Fat: 64%
Polyunsaturated Fat: 28% (including omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids)

Canola oil has a balanced ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids (approximately 2:1), making it a good source of essential fats that are beneficial for heart health (Healthline, Canola Council).

Health Benefits

Research suggests that canola oil can help lower "bad" LDL cholesterol levels and may reduce the risk of heart disease when used in place of saturated fats (Canola Council). It is also a source of vitamins E and K, contributing to overall health (Healthline).

It's important to note that a significant portion of canola crops (over 90% in the U.S.) are genetically modified (GMO) to enhance oil quality and increase herbicide tolerance (Healthline). While GMOs are considered safe for consumption by many regulatory bodies, the topic remains controversial, and consumers may choose organic or non-GMO options if they prefer (Healthline, Britannica).

Canola oil is a widely used cooking oil made from the seeds of the canola plant, which is a low-erucic acid variant of rapeseed. Its production involves several steps, including cleaning, pressing, and refining, resulting in a product that is both versatile and beneficial for health. With its favorable fatty acid profile and potential health benefits, canola oil remains a popular choice in kitchens around the world. Whether you choose conventional or organic canola oil, understanding its origins and production can help you make informed decisions about your cooking oils.