What Experts Say about the most suitable Cooking Oil for Indian Kitchens?

In India, cooking is not just a daily routine, it’s an emotion rooted in our culture. Edible oil forms an essential ingredient for any dish cooked in the Indian Kitchen. Mostly the choice of edible oil used in a household depends on the preferred taste, aroma, and flavours cherished by the family. However, most frequently asked question by households is – ‘which is the healthiest cooking oil for my family’.

In a recent dietary study conducted by AIG Hospital, Hyderabad as published in leading newspapers, Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, senior gastroenterologist and Chairman of AIG, who was honoured with Padma Vibhushan award earlier this year, said, “We substituted olive oil with rice bran oil for cooking, which has similar qualities. The participants, all doctors, also maintained their regular physical activity. The most remarkable finding was the transformation of participants' gut microbiomes, fostering a more balanced, healthy community of bacteria when consuming a balanced diet cooked in rice bran oil.” He further explained “Ancient physicians such as Charaka and Hippocrates understood that all health conditions stem from the gut. Healthy bacteria stimulate the immune system and remove toxins, while harmful bacteria can cause obesity and various diseases, including heart issues. This is why managing your diet from an early age is vital for maintaining long-term health”.

When health is everyone's top concern, Rice Bran Oil seems to be the healthiest option available According to Dr. Rohini Sharma, Ph. D. Food Science and Nutrition, Consultant Food Technologist, Consultant Nutritionist, and Life Coach speaking at International Conference on Rice Bran Oil (ICRBO)-2023, “Rice Bran Oil is a very healthy oil and more people should know the benefits of using the Rice Bran Oil. Rice Bran Oil has a balanced fatty profile with PUFA and MUFA in the ratio of 1:1, and very low saturated fatty acids. It is rich in nutraceuticals – Oryzanol, tocopherol, and tocotrienols which are natural Antioxidants. Gamma-Oryzanol present in Rice Bran Oil, it reduces Bad Cholesterol (LDL) and maintains Good Cholesterol (HDL). Furthermore, rice bran oil has a high smoke point, which means that it can be used for high-temperature cooking like in the Indian Households. Keeping these benefits in mind, we suggest people to use rice bran oil for daily cooking and make a healthier choice”.

According to Dr. Sheryl Salis, Registered Dietitian (RD), Certified Diabetes Educator, Insulin Pump Specialist, and Founder -of Nurture Health Solutions speaking at International Conference on Rice Bran Oil (ICRBO)-2023, “We recommend people to use Rice Bran Oil, as it is made in India and ideally suited to our Indian palate. The National Institution of Nutrition (NIN), ICMR, WHO, and several heart organizations have regularly promoted the use of Rice Bran Oil. In clinical practice, we are witnessing a lot of young people suffering from diabetes and heart diseases. Rice bran oil offers immense health benefits and is ideal for Indian household daily usage. We recommend people to lead an active lifestyle and eat food cooked in rice bran oil to lead a healthy life.”

Esteemed nutrition expert, Dr. Matheen Asrar, (PhD Nutritionist) said “Edible oils provide essential fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins, and other vital nutrients that our body requires. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining healthy cell function, supporting brain health, and aiding nutrient absorption. The specific combination of fatty acids found in rice bran oil positions it as an excellent choice for those seeking to prioritize heart health. Keeping in mind the benefits, we strongly recommend use of Rice Bran Oil for cooking food daily.”

According to Ms. Nadhiya, a homemaker who prioritizes health without compromising on taste and traditional flavours of the dishes, "Incorporating Freedom Rice Bran Oil into our meals has transformed the way I cook. It imparts a delightful lightness to our dishes while ensuring I am contributing to my family's overall well-being. The remarkable ability of rice bran oil to lend a crispy and light texture to fried foods enables me to provide my family with comfort foods without compromising their health.”

According to Mr. P. Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Senior Vice President – Sales & Marketing, Freedom Rice Bran Oil, “More than just a cooking essential, Freedom Rice Bran Oil has become a trusted ally for health-conscious consumers. This dedicated approach ensures that consumers can fully embrace the potential health benefits of Freedom Rice Bran Oil with 10000+ ppm Oryzanol, tocopherol, and tocotrienols which are natural Antioxidants, helps to reduce Bad Cholesterol (LDL), and maintain Good Cholesterol (HDL). Based on the extensive studies and inputs from experts like doctors, nutritionists and dietitians; to lead a healthy life people should eat balanced diet with portion control, use the right cooking oil like Freedom Rice Bran Oil, do regular exercise, relax and take adequate sleep this will help them lead a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle.”

In Conclusion we can safely state that in the Indian Context the balanced profile, neutral taste and aroma of Rice Bran Oil making it the ideal healthy choice for daily cooking in Indian Households