Where Innovation Meets Purity
Where Innovation Meets Purity
Why It’s Time to Say Goodbye to Refined Oil: 5 Healthier Alternatives for Indian Kitchens
“What if the oil you’re using every day in your kitchen is doing more harm than good?”
For most Indian households, cooking oil is a staple. From frying pakoras to adding tadka to dal, oil is central to the way we cook and enjoy food.
But here’s the catch, not all oils are created equal. The wrong oils, especially refined oils loaded with trans fats, can silently increase the risk of lifestyle diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart problems.
So, the question is: Are you cooking with the right oil?
Renowned cardiologist and functional medicine expert Dr. Alok Chopra emphasises that blindly following global oil trends isn’t always the best for Indian kitchens.
Why? Oils must not only be healthy but also withstand high-heat cooking and complement the rich flavours of Indian cuisine.
Choosing the Right Oil Matters
Indian cooking is different. Our tadkas, curries, and rotis often need high heat and complex spice blends. Many Western oils don’t work in this environment, they either break down, lose nutrients, or even turn harmful.
Refined oils, although common, are high in trans fats and poor in nutrients. Over time, they can contribute to heart problems, obesity, and lifestyle diseases.
The solution? Shift to oils that are:
- Heat-stable for Indian cooking
- Rich in good fats that support heart and brain health
- Rooted in tradition yet backed by modern science
5 Healthier Alternatives to Refined Oil
Here are Dr. Chopra’s top picks that bring both taste and health to your kitchen:
1. Ghee
The golden staple of Indian kitchens. Rich in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), ghee boosts digestion, strengthens immunity, and adds authentic flavour to Indian food.
2. Coconut Oil
Perfect for South Indian cooking, coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that boost energy and support weight management. It’s also excellent for heart health when used in moderation.
3. Mustard Oil
Known for its pungent aroma, mustard oil is packed with omega-3 fatty acids. It reduces inflammation, protects the heart, and is great for traditional cooking styles like pickling and frying.
4. Sesame Oil
Used in Ayurveda for centuries, sesame oil is rich in antioxidants. It supports healthy cholesterol levels and brings a nutty depth of flavour to dishes
5. Groundnut Oil
Mild, versatile, and heat-stable, groundnut oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, making it a safe, heart-friendly choice for everyday Indian cooking.
Why Switching from Refined Oil Matters?
Refined oils often go through chemical processing, stripping them of nutrients and leaving behind harmful compounds.
On the other hand, cold-pressed and traditional oils retain natural antioxidants and nutrients, making them a smarter choice for long-term health.
At Gorek Technologies, we believe healthy living starts with informed choices in the kitchen. By adopting these oils, you’re not just upgrading your meals, you’re investing in your family’s health and well-being.
Remember the question we began with: “What if the oil you’re using every day is doing more harm than good?” The answer lies in your hands.
By choosing naturally nourishing oils like ghee, coconut, mustard, sesame, and groundnut, you take a small but powerful step toward protecting your heart, boosting your immunity, and honouring the flavours of Indian tradition.
At Gorek Technologies, we’re committed to bringing awareness to healthier cooking choices, because the right oil doesn’t just cook your food, it safeguards your life.