Soak up the myriad benefits of almond oil, with Flora's unique Almond Oil Hydro-Therm blend. Almond oil has long been prized as a multi-purpose oil, used in skin care, cooking, and baking. Its culinary uses are key in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as it contains omegas-6 (3 grams/tbsp.) and -9 (9 grams/tbsp.), key foundational fats that our bodies must obtain through dietary sources. Flora's unique hydro-therm technique, inspired by traditional European pressing, uses a gentle, low-temperature method, ensuring the protection of the full spectrum of essential fatty acids and the highest taste and quality.
When oil begins to smoke it starts to breakdown, the process is called thermal oxidation. The smoke indicates that carcinogens are being released into the air and free radicals are forming in the oil. Oil that begins to smoke should ideally be discarded and replaced with fresh oil for optimal health and taste. Beware of highly processed supermarket oils. They are made with a long shelf life in mind, rather than considerations of dietary health.
Polyunsaturated Fats: These fats include omega-3 and omega-6 EFAs. Every cell, tissue, gland, and organ is dependent upon the presence of EFAs. They are the main structural components of every cell membrane, are necessary for cell growth and division, and regulate cell activities.
Monounsaturated Fats: The Mediterranean diet has long been known for its healthful benefits. Cardiovascular health and cholesterol regulation are often attributed to monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acids.
Saturated Fats: Do you know the difference between long-, short-, and medium-chain fatty acids? Long-chain fatty acids from animals are often harmful because they can cause arteries to become clogged. Short-chain and medium-chain fatty acids, which come from plant oils, support good health and are used for energy by our bodies.
Trans Fats: Consumption of trans-fatty acids should be avoided. They are created by a chemical process called hydrogenation. Through this process, fats are created that are more shelf stable. However, it is nearly impossible for our bodies to digest them. Read labels carefully and avoid products with an ingredient lists that include hydrogenated vegetable oils or hydrogenated fats.
Excellent as a gourmet salad dressing, it also lends a delicate flavor to home baked pastries, sweets, and granola. Delicious over oatmeal or yogurt.
These culinary oils are unrefined and unfiltered. Given their delicate nature, they have a very low smoke point and should be used with little or no heat to truly appreciate their sublime flavor. They are best used during the last few minutes of cooking or as a final accent drizzled over a favorite dish.
CAUTIONS: These unrefined oils are perishable. For optimum freshness keep them stored in the refrigerator.