You already know (else we’re informing you now) that edible oils are extracted from plant and animal materials. Perhaps you also understand why we refine edible oils. Regardless of your knowledge level, this blog post will give you a clear understanding of edible oil refining before making your next solvent purchase on our website.
How is edible oil made?
The process of making edible oil has been perfected over thousands of years. As societies grew and demand increased, we developed more efficient technology and production methods. Today, most edible oil refining and creation is executed via chemical oil extraction.
Production steps:
- Cleanse
- All debris removed from the surface
- Clean material crushed and heated
- Press
- The crushed material is placed under gradually increased pressure (think juicer)
- Solvent Extraction
- Solvent added to pressed material to dissolve remaining oil
- The solvent is distilled (removed from the oil)
- Refine
- Package
Edible Oil Refining Specifics
Manufacturers uphold high standards for edible oil refining to ensure customer satisfaction and health safety. Refining edible oil ensures product consistency in taste, appearance, and odor. The edible oil refining process varies for some products, but it is relatively standardized amongst manufacturers.
The steps for refining edible oil are:
- Neutralization: Oil heated to 85 ºC and combined with an alkaline substance
- Degumming: Oil treated with water or acid and gum dregs removed
- Bleaching: Pigment filtered out
- Deodorization: Steam passed through oil
Although the first three production steps are consistent, discrepancies can occur in the refinement process. Some edible oils need to be rapidly chilled or “winterized” since they are meant to be served cold. For manufacturers looking to reduce odor via edible oil refining, citric acid is optional but effective for deodorizing oils.
Shopping for edible oil refining solvents?
Look no further! Extraction Grade Solvents have the solutions to your solvent needs. Browse our website for solvents specifically for edible oil refining here.
Have questions?
No need to fret; our team is standing by to help you determine the best edible oil refining solvents for your organization. Contact us via email, phone, or our easy message form.