Regular Coconut Oil Vs. Virgin Coconut Oil

Once thought to be a dangerous saturated fat to be avoided, coconut oil can be found in grocery stores and natural food centers in abundance. Knowing the difference between regular coconut oil and virgin coconut oil is an important component to using this product effectively.

Check the Label

Virgin coconut oil has this notation on the label. It also states it is unrefined. Regular coconut oil states it is a refined product.

Identification

The difference between regular and virgin coconut oil is distinct. Regular has a solid white color, is primarily odorless and has no taste of coconut. Virgin has an opaque white color, and has a distinct smell and taste of coconut.

Similarities

Regular and virgin coconut oil will solidify in cooler temperatures and melt in higher ones.

Processing the Product

Regular coconut oil is extracted usually from the dried meat of the coconut called copra. Virgin coconut oil uses cold-pressed processing of the fresh meat without bleach or deodorization.

Significance

Because of the use of low-quality dried copra and the heating processing of regular coconut oil, important nutritious benefits are lost.

References

• Pure Virgin Coconut Oil
• Unrefined Coconut Oil
• Refined Coconut Oil

Resources

• Health Benefits of Coconut Oil