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The Top Organic Coconut Oil Brands

By Michael August 30, 2023

Choosing the right organic coconut oil brands is crucial. Diving into the world of natural wellness, I found myself, much like many of you, curious about organic coconut oil’s rising prominence.

Organic coconut oil is the quintessential elixir for holistic health. It’s a marvel that promises rejuvenation for your skin, hair, and inner vitality.

Are you tired of skin that feels eternally parched? Frustrated with hair that lacks shine? Or perhaps you’re on the hunt for a wholesome alternative in your culinary adventures?

I’ve walked that path, felt those same challenges, and emerged with a jar of this tropical treasure in hand. Together, let’s unravel its magic and discover the brands that truly embody its essence.

Click here to buy Organic Coconut Oil now.

What Is Organic Coconut Oil?

Organic coconut oil is derived from the meat of coconuts harvested from coconut palms cultivated without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms. This adherence to natural farming techniques ensures that the coconut oil produced is free from harmful chemicals and retains its purest form.

The process begins with the selection of mature, high-quality organic coconuts. Once harvested, these coconuts undergo either a “dry” or “wet” method of extraction. The dry method involves drying the coconut meat, or copra, followed by pressing to extract the oil.

The wet method, on the other hand, extracts the oil directly from the raw coconut meat. Whichever method is used, the next crucial step is refining. For virgin organic coconut oil, minimal refining is done to preserve its natural nutrients.

What makes organic coconut oil particularly safe and beneficial is its extraction and processing without the use of chemicals or high temperatures. This ensures that all its natural goodness, including beneficial fatty acids and antioxidants, remains intact.

Moreover, organic certification mandates strict standards in farming and processing, ensuring consumers receive a product free from contaminants, genetically modified organisms, or artificial additives.

The result? A pure, rich, and versatile oil that stands as one of nature’s finest gifts to our health and well-being.

The Differences: Virgin, Extra Virgin, Refined, Unrefined Coconut Oil

Coconut oil, with its plethora of uses and health benefits, comes in various forms, each with its distinct characteristics. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between virgin, extra virgin, refined, and unrefined coconut oil:

Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO):

Source: Extracted from the fresh meat or milk of coconuts without using excessive heat.
Process: Typically made using a cold-pressing method, ensuring minimal heat exposure. This helps retain the oil’s natural aroma, flavor, and nutrients.
Characteristics: It retains a pronounced coconut taste and scent, and is rich in antioxidants and medium-chain fatty acids.

Extra Virgin Coconut Oil:

Source & Process: There’s a common misconception propagated by marketing jargon. Unlike olive oil, which has established criteria distinguishing ‘virgin’ from ‘extra virgin’, there is no standardized difference for coconut oil. Thus, extra virgin coconut oil is often the same as virgin coconut oil.
Characteristics: Similar to VCO, it has a notable coconut flavor and smell, and preserves the oil’s natural nutritional constituents.

Refined Coconut Oil:

Source: Extracted from dried coconut meat, also known as copra.
Process: The copra undergoes bleaching (to kill contaminants, not to bleach color) and deodorizing. Some refined oils can be hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated, increasing trans fat content.
Characteristics: It has a neutral scent and flavor, making it suitable for recipes where a coconut flavor is undesired. It also has a slightly higher smoke point than VCO, making it more apt for some cooking methods.

Unrefined Coconut Oil:

Source & Process: This is essentially the same as virgin coconut oil. It’s extracted from the fresh meat or milk of coconuts without high heat or chemicals.
Characteristics: Retains a natural coconut aroma and taste and houses the maximum nutritional benefits of the oil.

Click here to buy organic coconut oil unrefined cold pressed now.

How To Choose Organic Coconut Oil

Choosing the right organic coconut oil requires an understanding of your specific needs and knowledge about the product’s features. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed choice:

Purpose of Use:

Culinary: If you’re using it for cooking, baking, or as a food supplement, a neutral flavor might be preferable, so consider refined coconut oil. However, for dishes where a coconutty flavor enhances the dish, virgin or unrefined would be ideal.
Cosmetic: For skin and hair, virgin or unrefined coconut oil retains more beneficial properties.

Check for Certifications:

Ensure it’s genuinely “organic” by looking for credible organic certifications on the label, like USDA Organic or the equivalent in your country.

Virgin vs. Refined:

If you desire the maximum nutrients and authentic coconut flavor and aroma, go for virgin or unrefined coconut oil.
If you prefer a neutral taste and smell, opt for refined coconut oil.

Packaging:

Glass jars are preferable as they don’t leach any chemicals into the oil, unlike some plastic containers.
Dark containers are a bonus as they protect the oil from light, which can degrade its quality over time.

Read the Ingredients:

True organic coconut oil should have only one ingredient: coconut oil. Avoid oils with additives, chemicals, or any unfamiliar terms.

Extraction Method:

Look for “cold-pressed” on the label. This means the oil was extracted without high heat, preserving its beneficial properties.

Check the Appearance:

Quality virgin coconut oil should be clear when liquid and uniformly white when solid. Any discoloration could indicate impurities or poor processing.

Scent and Taste:

Virgin coconut oil should have a mild coconut scent and flavor. A strong aroma could mean it’s rancid or poorly processed. Refined coconut oil should be neutral in both.

Avoid Hydrogenated Varieties:

Hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated coconut oils contain unhealthy trans fats. Always ensure the oil you choose is non-hydrogenated.

Price and Brand Reputation:

You often get what you pay for. Extremely cheap oils may compromise on quality. Research brands read reviews, and perhaps even reach out to brands to inquire about their production methods if you’re uncertain.

Click here to buy organic coconut oil for your baby now.

Our Top Picks of Organic Coconut Oil Brands

1) Dr. Bronner’s – Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

Dr. Bronner’s is a brand I’ve always held in high regard due to its commitment to organic, sustainable, and ethical practices. Their Organic Virgin Coconut Oil mirrors this ethos, being sourced from fair trade and regenerative organic farming practices. As I delved into various organic coconut oil brands, my choice gravitated towards Dr. Bronner’s for its uncompromising values and the consistent quality it brings to the table.

I chose Dr. Bronner’s because it not only speaks of quality but also advocates for ethical consumerism. After comparing numerous brands, it was evident that Dr. Bronner’s commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing made it distinct. I believe this brand is best for those who are environmentally conscious and want a product that aligns with their values.

Pros:

Ethically sourced, emphasizing fair trade practices
Pure and organic, ensuring no chemical additives or contaminants

Versatile in its uses, suitable for both culinary and cosmetic applications

Cons:

Priced higher than some other brands on the market

Distinct coconut flavor might not be suitable for all culinary dishes
Packaging might be considered bulky for limited storage spaces

2) Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

Nutiva stands as a pillar in the realm of organic products, consistently delivering high-quality offerings to consumers. Their Organic Virgin Coconut Oil exemplifies this commitment, produced with a dedication to purity and ethical sourcing. A leading choice for many, this coconut oil is an embodiment of the brand’s passion for natural, unrefined products that benefit both the body and the environment.

When selecting products for my list, Nutiva’s brand quickly rose to the top, not just for its reputation but also for the evident care it put into its products. In judging and comparing various organic coconut oil brands, Nutiva’s consistent focus on sustainability and organic farming practices marked it as different. I determined that this brand is best for those prioritizing high-quality, pure products that have a minimal environmental footprint.

Pros:

Commitment to organic and non-GMO practices ensures product purity
Sustainability is at the forefront with a focus on reducing the carbon footprint
Multipurpose use, apt for both dietary and external applications

Cons:

Can be more expensive than non-organic alternatives
The aroma and taste, though natural, might be strong for some users

Solidifies at lower temperatures, which may require heating for certain applications

3) 365 Organic Unrefined Coconut Oil

365 Organic has etched its mark in the organic community, primarily due to its straightforward approach to offering wholesome, clean products. Their Unrefined Coconut Oil reflects this ethos, promising an untampered product, derived without unnecessary refinements or additives. It serves as a testament to the brand’s consistent drive towards maintaining nature’s integrity.

In the process of selecting standout brands for my list, 365 Organic consistently echoed the principles I value in quality and authenticity. When comparing and judging the plethora of options available, 365 Organic’s straightforward, no-nonsense approach to its products distinctly stood out. I believe this organic coconut oil brand is best for those who want a straightforward, unaltered product that stays true to nature’s design.

Pros:

Unrefined nature ensures the retention of natural nutrients

Backed by a reputable brand known for quality organic products
Versatile, making it suitable for a myriad of applications from cooking to skincare

Cons:

The robust coconut flavor might not be everyone’s preference
Might be a bit pricier than refined alternatives
Requires storage in cooler environments to maintain consistency

4) La Tourangelle, Organic Virgin Unrefined Coconut Oil

La Tourangelle stands as a beacon of artisanal craftsmanship in the world of oils. With deep-rooted traditions stemming from the Loire Valley of France, the brand carries forward its legacy of producing fine oils. Their Organic Virgin Unrefined Coconut Oil is a manifestation of this heritage, crafted with care and unyielding standards of quality.

While curating a list of top-tier brands, La Tourangelle emerged as a frontrunner due to its rich history and dedication to artisanship. Through comparison and judgment of several contenders, La Tourangelle’s emphasis on traditional production techniques made it uniquely prominent. I am of the opinion that this brand is best for those who appreciate a blend of tradition and quality in their culinary choices.

Pros:

Produced with traditional methods, ensuring purity and quality
Imparts a mild and pleasant coconut flavor, suitable for varied recipes

Organic and unrefined, retaining the natural benefits of the coconut

Cons:

Might come at a premium price given its artisanal nature

The glass packaging, while eco-friendly, can be fragile
The texture might vary slightly due to its natural processing method

5) NOW Organic Virgin Coconut Cooking Oil

NOW is a name synonymous with natural wellness, with a longstanding commitment to offering health-centric products. Their Organic Virgin Coconut Cooking Oil underscores this dedication, formulated specifically for the discerning chef who values both health and flavor. By merging the goodness of virgin coconut oil with cooking requirements, NOW offers an oil that does justice to both nutrition and culinary excellence.

Navigating the maze of organic coconut oil brands, NOW presented itself as a reliable choice. When I compared and judged based on several criteria, NOW’s evident emphasis on health and culinary performance made it distinctive. From my perspective, this brand stands out as best for health-conscious cooks who refuse to compromise on taste.

Pros:

Tailored for cooking, ensuring heat stability and consistent performance
Retains the natural nutrients typically found in virgin coconut oil
Backed by a trusted brand with a strong emphasis on natural wellness

Cons:

Might be slightly more expensive than conventional cooking oils
The container design might not be user-friendly for all

As with many natural products, it may solidify at cooler temperatures

6) Nutiva Organic Steam-Refined Coconut Oil

Nutiva, a reputed name in the organic space, has consistently championed purity and sustainability. Their Organic Steam-Refined Coconut Oil is a testament to this dedication, offering a product refined without the use of harsh chemicals. By leveraging steam refinement, Nutiva ensures a neutral flavor while preserving the inherent goodness of the coconut.

In my quest to list noteworthy organic coconut oil brands, Nutiva’s approach to refinement caught my attention. Through judging and evaluating numerous options, the brand’s unique steam-refined method and its commitment to organic integrity differentiated it from others. I believe this brand is best for those seeking a milder taste without forsaking the organic essence.

Pros:

Steam refinement ensures the absence of chemical residues

The neutral flavor makes it versatile for varied cooking needs
Upholds organic standards, ensuring a clean product

Cons:

Lacks the pronounced coconut aroma some users might prefer
Might be pricier than non-steam refined options
Packaging might not cater to all user preferences

Summary

Selecting organic coconut oil brands is a choice rooted in health, environmental consciousness, and a commitment to ethical farming practices. When you opt for organic, you’re choosing an oil extracted from coconuts grown without synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or fertilizers. This not only ensures a purer, chemical-free product but also promotes sustainable farming methods that are gentler on the environment.

Moreover, organic coconut oil often retains more of its natural nutrients, providing a rich source of medium-chain fatty acids and offering potential health benefits such as improved metabolism, anti-inflammatory properties, and antimicrobial effects. When making the switch to organic, one also supports farming communities that prioritize the health of both the land and the consumer.

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Coconuts

Refined vs Unrefined Coconut Oil: Everything You Need To Know

By Michael April 8, 2023

Every household can benefit from using coconut oil, whether it’s for cooking or personal care. While there are many advantages, there is also a lot of confusion surrounding the many varieties, labels, and brand packaging.

Below is a breakdown of the most frequently asked questions to make understanding coconut oils much simpler. You are undoubtedly already aware of the many uses of coconut oil, including hydrating the body and preparing delicious meals.

Yet, things can get complicated when deciding which coconut oil to use. You have a few options to pick from when phrases like refined, unrefined, and virgin are listed on the label. The distinctions between unrefined and refined coconut oil are discussed in this article, along with when each should be used.

What Is Coconut Oil?

Coconut meat is the source of coconut oil, a plant-based fat. Its claim to fame is that it is one of only plant-based oils that is solid at room temperature due to its high levels of saturated fat. Many people appreciate its bland, somewhat sweet flavor as well as the added crispiness it can give to cooked meals.

Coconut oil has recently gained a lot of popularity and is frequently promoted as a healthy substitute for animal fats like butter and lard. But, according to the most recent studies, coconut oil should be consumed in moderation just like any other saturated fat.

Coconut Oil Nutritional Information

The USDA provides the following nutritional data for 1 teaspoon (4.5 grams) of coconut oil.

Calories: 40
Fat: 4.5g
Sodium: 0mg

Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g

Sugars: 0g

Calories

Foods high in calories include coconut oil. 40 calories are in one teaspoon (which means, that 1 tablespoon comprises 120 calories). Most individuals should be careful about how much coconut oil they frequently consume because it is so high in calories.

Vitamins & Minerals

Micronutrients are present in the coconut fruit, however, they are not transferred to the oil. Coconut oil contains just trace levels of vitamins and minerals.

Carbohydrates

As coconut oil is a plant, you may anticipate that it contains some carbs. Yet coconut oil just has fat in it and no carbohydrates.

Fats

100% of coconut oil is fat. There are 4.5 grams total in 1 teaspoon, of which 80–90% are saturated fats. Lauric acid makes up the majority of the saturated fatty acids in coconut oil, which may contribute to some of its health advantages.

Refined vs Unrefined Coconut Oil

Between refined and unrefined coconut oil, there are two main differences: the processing technique and the type of coconut meat used. The extraction and processing techniques utilized have an impact on the smoke point and flavor of coconut oil.

Refined Coconut Oil

Dried coconut meat is utilized to make refined coconut oil. As the dried coconut meat is pressed through a machine to extract the oil, the result is odorless with heat or steam.

To get rid of any contaminants or germs, the oil is subsequently bleached and filtered through clays (although this procedure does not technically involve bleach, it is nonetheless referred to as such). The main distinction between unrefined and refined coconut oil is this extra pressing step.

Refined coconut oil differs from unrefined coconut oil in that it has a neutral flavor and aroma. Moreover, refined coconut oil has a higher smoke point, which is in the 400–450°F range.

Although it has a significantly shorter shelf life of only a few months, refined coconut oil can be stored similarly in a cold, dark environment. It is best to throw out coconut oil if it has mold, a yellow color, an unpleasant odor, or a flavor that is odd.

Unrefined Coconut Oil

Virgin coconut oil, which is often referred to as unrefined coconut oil, is oil that has been taken from coconut meat without further processing. Unrefined coconut oil can be extracted from coconuts using either a dry process or a wet process.

The dry process, also known as copra, presses coconut oil from the dried coconut flesh using a machine. Whereas the wet process entails pressing the coconut milk and oil separately from fresh coconuts.

The wet technique is mostly used to obtain unrefined coconut oil. The term “cold pressed” can be used to describe some unrefined coconut oils, meaning that no heat was used to remove them.

Unrefined coconut oil gives foods that contain it a rich coconut flavor and aroma. It is solid at room temperature. 350°F (177°C) is the oil’s smoke point or the temperature at which it starts to smoke.

When to Use Unrefined and Refined Coconut Oil

Hair & Skin Care

Because lauric acid in coconut oil provides moisture to nourish hair, it might also be beneficial for hair. Coconut oil can help mend split ends and stop them from happening in the first place. Making a hair mask with unrefined coconut oil is one way to incorporate it into your routine. If your hair has been over-styled and is damaged, the oil can aid.

Coconut oil is useful for skin care outside of the kitchen. Dermatologists advise using unrefined coconut oil, preferably one that has been cold-pressed rather than expeller-pressed. Expeller-pressed coconut oil is regarded to contain fewer nutrients than cold-pressed coconut oil, making the former better for skin care. Because lauric acid in coconut oil has such high antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, it can act as a moisturizer.

Baking

Due to its neutral flavor that won’t clash with other tastes in your baking recipe, refined coconut oil may be your best bet.

Use unrefined, though, if you want a stronger coconut flavor or are feeling a little frisky. Since unrefined has a lower smoking point, baking goods won’t be harmed by heating the oven to 350°F.

Also, either variety of coconut oil is a wonderful substitute for butter for vegans. Pie crusts benefit greatly from the solid fat.

Cooking

Refined coconut oil is preferable for frying since it can sustain greater temperatures due to its different smoke points. However, sautéing can be done with unrefined coconut oil. Unrefined coconut oil can be utilized in other savory recipes where you would want the flavor because it also has a strong coconut flavor.

Dietary Requirements

Because coconut oil fits dietary needs, some people utilize it. For instance, the oil is well-liked by followers of the low-carb, high-fat ketogenic diet because it has trace amounts of MCT oil, which may help burn fat. With their extremely comparable nutritional profiles, either variety is typically suitable for persons on the keto diet.

Nonetheless, some people can be more focused on the quality of their diet than the number of macronutrients. Unrefined coconut oil, for instance, would be a preferable choice because it has undergone less processing if you follow a diet that consists primarily of minimally processed foods.

Other Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

Boosts Vitality and Endurance

It is simple to digest coconut oil. Moreover, it boosts metabolism and creates more energy over a longer period of time.

According to studies, you can profit the most from coconut oil when you consume high-quality, unrefined varieties since its MCFAs are transported directly to the liver where they are turned into energy.

Nowadays, a lot of triathletes use coconut oil as fuel during long-distance training and competitions.

Coconut oil, raw honey, and chia seeds can be combined to create your own homemade energy source. Just combine one tablespoon of each, and eat it for 30 minutes before working out.

Reduces Ulcerative Colitis and Stomach Ulcers and Improves Digestion

Moreover, coconut enhances digestion by facilitating the body’s absorption of calcium, magnesium, and fat-soluble vitamins. As omega-3 fatty acids are easily digested and utilized by the body when taken with coconut oil, doing so can increase their effectiveness twofold.

By eliminating undesirable bacteria like candida, coconut oil may assist to enhance gut health and flora. Particularly when there is a candida imbalance, less stomach acid is produced, which leads to irritation and poor digestion.

Together, these factors show that coconut oil is good for the digestive system and can treat or prevent ulcerative colitis and stomach ulcers.

Support Bone Health

The two main contributing factors to osteoporosis are oxidative stress and free radicals. It is a well-known natural treatment for osteoporosis due to coconut oil’s strong antioxidant content, which aids in the battle against free radicals.

The intestinal absorption of calcium is increased by coconut oil. According to studies on osteoporosis, coconut oil not only strengthens and builds up the patients’ bones, but also prevents bone loss caused by the disease.

Aids in Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment

Ketones, which the brain may easily access for energy, are produced when the liver breaks down medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs). Ketones give the brain energy without requiring insulin to convert glucose into cellular energy.

The brain actually produces its own insulin to metabolize glucose and power brain cells, according to research. Also, research suggests that the ketones from coconut oil may act as a substitute energy source for the brain of an Alzheimer’s patient when the brain loses the capacity to produce its own insulin.

Due to their neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities, medium chain triglycerides are highlighted in a 2020 review as having a role in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.

Is Refined Coconut Oil Healthy?

There is virtually an explosion of coconut oil and other by-products of the coconut available in grocery stores. Is coconut oil a good option? Coconut oil is a plant-based fat with a saturated content of over 90%, making it more saturated than butter or the fat found in meats as well as other plant-based fats like olive oil and canola oil.

High saturation lipids or fats are viewed as harmful options since they frequently increase blood levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol, which raises the risk of heart disease. Coconut oil, like other plant-based lipids (fats), has a sweet, nutty flavor that some people find pleasant when used in cooking. It is also naturally free of cholesterol.

Some food producers moved to tropical oils like coconut oil and palm oil in the food product formulation as evidence grew several years ago that partially hydrogenated oils should be avoided due to the trans fats formed during hydrogenation. These tropical oils are solid at room temperature due to their high saturation level, just as the partially hydrogenated oils they were meant to replace.

For a 2,000 calorie diet, the American Heart Association advises aiming for a dietary pattern that keeps saturated fat to 5% to 6% of calories, or around 13 grams per day (from all forms). The use of coconut oil in moderation is advised by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Conclusion

Although the nutritional profiles of refined and unrefined coconut oil are nearly identical, they differ greatly in other ways.

Unrefined coconut oil is less processed, has a stronger coconut flavor, and has a lower smoke point than refined coconut oil. Refined coconut oil also has a gentler aroma and flavor.

One sort of oil can be more appropriate for you than the other, depending on what you need it for. Nonetheless, both refined and unrefined coconut oils are excellent sources of healthful fat due to their identical nutritional contents.

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