Which is better, soybean oil extracted by pressing or by solvent extraction?

Views: 53 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2023-08-19 Origin: Site

1. **Different Processing Techniques:**

   Pressed soybean oil is produced through a "physical pressing method," while solvent-extracted oil is produced through a "chemical solvent extraction method." The physical pressing method requires careful selection of raw materials. The oilseeds are cleaned, crushed, steamed, roasted, and then mechanically pressed to separate the oil from the seeds. During the pressing process, toasted seeds are sometimes added. The oil is then filtered and purified using advanced natural filtration techniques. This method preserves the original flavor of soybeans, resulting in oil with a rich aroma and high vitamin E content. It has a long shelf life, contains no additives, solvents, or soap content. It is a natural, green food produced through a combination of modern and traditional techniques. On the other hand, solvent extraction involves using organic solvents like "hexane" to extract oil. This method has the potential to leave traces of toxic organic compounds like n-hexane, which can be harmful to human health. Only after rigorous refining can solvent-extracted oil be considered safe for consumption. However, this refining process may lead to some loss of nutritional value, including vitamins.


2. **Nutritional Composition:**

   Pressed soybean oil retains its color, aroma, and taste, along with various nutritional components. Solvent-extracted oil is colorless and flavorless, with a significant portion of its nutritional content destroyed during processing.


3. **Different Soybean Raw Material Requirements:**

   "Pressed soybean oil" is produced purely through physical pressing, retaining the original flavor of soybeans. As a result, strict requirements are imposed on soybean raw materials. The raw materials need to be fresh, with low acid value and peroxide value, making them relatively more expensive. Additionally, since only pressing is involved, the residual oil content in soybean cake is high, and the oil yield from pressing is relatively low. Therefore, pressed soybean oil tends to be more expensive.


In summary, pressed soybean oil is generally considered to be of higher quality due to its natural processing method that preserves more of the original nutrients and flavor. Solvent-extracted oil, while more efficient in terms of oil yield, often requires rigorous refining to ensure it's safe for consumption. The choice between the two depends on factors such as desired nutritional quality, processing methods, and price considerations.