Filtered oil is primarily made by extracting oil using a traditional cold-pressing method and then subjecting it to a minimal filtration process to remove impurities.
The production of filtered oil emphasizes a gentle approach, aiming to preserve the natural characteristics and flavor of the source material. Unlike highly refined oils, filtered oils undergo very little processing beyond the initial extraction and simple filtration.
The Process of Making Filtered Oil
The creation of filtered oil is a straightforward process focused on purity without excessive intervention. Here's a breakdown:
- Traditional Cold-Pressing Method:
- The journey begins with the traditional cold-pressing method. This technique involves pressing oil-bearing seeds (like groundnuts, as implied by the reference) at low temperatures.
- Cold-pressing ensures that the oil is extracted without the use of heat or chemical solvents, which helps to preserve its natural nutrients, aroma, and flavor profile.
- This initial step yields crude oil that still contains various solid particles.
- Filtration:
- Following cold-pressing, the oil is then filtered once or twice.
- The primary purpose of this filtration is to remove suspended particles. These particles can include fine sediment, fibers, or other solid residues from the pressing process.
- The filtration typically uses fine mesh or filter cloths to physically separate these unwanted solids from the liquid oil, resulting in a clearer product.
- Simple Bottling:
- After filtration, there is no further processing. The oil is simply filtered and then directly bottled for distribution.
- This minimal processing ensures that the oil remains largely unrefined, retaining its inherent qualities.
Characteristics of Filtered Oil
Filtered oils are known for their distinct characteristics, largely due to their less intensive production method:
- Retention of Flavor: Unrefined or filtered oils, such as those derived from groundnuts, retain the savoury flavour of their original source material. This is a key differentiator from highly refined oils, which often have a neutral taste.
- Natural Appeal: The minimal processing makes filtered oils appealing to consumers seeking more natural and less altered food products.
- Clarity: While not as crystal clear as highly refined oils, filtered oils are free from visible suspended solids, providing a clean appearance suitable for consumption.
In essence, filtered oil is a product of traditional extraction combined with light mechanical purification, ensuring a balance between clarity and natural integrity.
