Kinds of Deep Fryer Oil

Cooking oil that is used to deep fry foods should have a high smoke point. The smoke point is the temperature at which the oil will begin to smoke. Typically, oil should reach at least 350 degrees F in order to cook food thoroughly and create a crispy coating.

Peanut Oil

Peanut oil has a smoke point of 450 degrees F and a nutty flavor. This saturated fat is expensive, and may contribute to high blood pressure and heart disease.

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is an inexpensive, all-purpose oil. Made mostly of soybean oil, it has a high smoking point of 400 degrees F.

Canola Oil

Canola oil is made from the oil of a rapeseed plant. It has a smoking point of 450 degrees F. Canola oil contains very little saturated fat, making it a healthy choice for frying food.

Corn

Corn oil is extracted from corn kernels and is tasteless. It has a high smoking point of 450 degrees F. It is a polyunsaturated fat, which does not contribute to high blood pressure.

Soybean Oil

Soybean oil is commonly labeled as "pure vegetable oil." It is an inexpensive, all-purpose oil that has a high smoking point of 400 degrees F.

Olive Oil

Olive oil and extra virgin olive oil may be a healthy choice for cooking, but they have a very low smoking point. Olive oil begins to smoke at 320 degrees F, making it a poor choice to use for deep frying.