In the pursuit of healthier lifestyles, the fight against trans fats in cooking oils has become a critical focus, with Karnataka leading the charge in India. The state’s proactive measures, spearheaded by its Food Safety and Drug Administration, are setting a benchmark for safer food practices by enforcing strict regulations on oil production, usage, and disposal. By promoting trans fat-free, nutrient-rich options like FSSAI-compliant, chemical-free cold-pressed oils, Karnataka is paving the way for a nationwide shift toward healthier cooking. This article explores the dangers of trans fats, the benefits of trans fat-free oils, and highlights Jivo’s best cold-pressed oils that offers both health benefits and culinary versatility.
Karnataka’s Role in the Trans Fat Fight
Karnataka’s Food Safety and Drug Administration is setting a strong example in the fight against trans fats in cooking oils. In a recent video conference, the state’s Food Safety Commissioner gathered cooking oil manufacturers, hotel and bakery owners, and RUCO (Repurpose Used Cooking Oil) agency heads to enforce safer practices. The state mandates strict hygiene in oil production, proper labelling per FSSAI norms, and fortification with Vitamins A and D. Manufacturers must test oil quality every six months, and hotels are directed to send used oil to RUCO agencies for biodiesel production, preventing harmful reuse. With 32.68 lakh liters of used oil collected in 2024-25 and 2025-26, Karnataka’s efforts highlight the need for healthier oils, inspiring the use of the best healthy oils across India.
Understanding Trans Fats in Cooking Oils
Trans fats are unhealthy fats found in some cooking oils, particularly those processed or reused. They come in two forms:
Artificial Trans Fats: Created through hydrogenation, a process that turns liquid oils into solids like vanaspati or margarine. These are common in fried foods, snacks, and restaurant cooking oils.
Natural Trans Fats: Found in small amounts in animal-based fats like ghee or butter, but these are less harmful and not the main concern.
Artificial trans fats are the primary issue in cooking oils. They’re inexpensive, extend shelf life, and are widely used in commercial kitchens; however, their health risks are significant. Choosing the best cold-pressed oils in India helps avoid these dangers and keeps your meals safe and nutritious.
The Dangers of Trans Fats
Trans fats in cooking oils can have a detrimental impact on your health. Here’s why you should steer clear:
Heart Disease: Trans fats raise LDL (bad cholesterol) and lower HDL (good cholesterol), increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Chronic Inflammation: They trigger inflammation, leading to conditions like diabetes and obesity.
Cancer Risks: High trans fat intake, especially from reused oils, is linked to higher cancer risks due to toxic compounds like free radicals.
Digestive Problems: Reused oils break down into harmful substances, affecting gut health and causing discomfort.
Switching to trans fat-free oils is essential for long-term health, and the best cooking oils in India, like cold-pressed options, make it easy to cook safely.
Why Trans Fat-Free Oils Are Healthier
Trans fat-free oils, especially those rich in healthy fats, can transform your diet. Healthy fats include:
Monounsaturated Fats (MUFA): Found in oils like canola and groundnut, these lower bad cholesterol and support heart health.
Polyunsaturated Fats (PUFA): Including omega-3 and omega-6, these are vital for brain health, reducing inflammation, and heart function. Oils like mustard and sunflower are great sources.
Saturated Fats (in Moderation): Found in coconut oil, these are stable for high-heat cooking and provide energy when used wisely.
Trans fat-free oils, particularly the best healthy oils, retain natural nutrients, antioxidants, and flavours. They’re free from harmful chemicals and trans fats, making them ideal for cooking delicious, health-conscious meals.
The Benefits of Cold-Pressed Oils
Cold-pressed oils are extracted using mechanical pressure at low temperatures, preserving their natural goodness. Unlike refined oils, which lose nutrients and may contain harmful solvents, cold-pressed oils are pure, nutrient-rich, and free from trans fats. They’re among the best cold-pressed oils in India because they enhance flavour and support health, making them perfect for Indian cooking.
Jivo Wellness, one of the top Indian cooking oil brands, offers a range of FSSAI-compliant and chemical-free cold-pressed oils that are trans fat-free and packed with healthy fats. Their oils are crafted to retain maximum nutrients, making them ideal for various cooking styles. Below, we explore four of Jivo’s top cold-pressed oils, with detailed introductions to highlight their unique benefits, healthy fat composition, and culinary uses.
1. Jivo Cold-Pressed Canola Oil
Jivo’s Cold-Pressed Canola Oil is a standout choice for health-conscious cooks who want versatility and nutrition in one bottle. Extracted without chemicals or high heat, this oil preserves its natural vitamins and healthy fats, making it a top pick among the best healthy oils. Its light, neutral flavour and high smoke point make it perfect for a wide range of Indian dishes, from stir-fries to baked goods. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and fits seamlessly into daily cooking, offering both taste and wellness in every drop.
- Trans Fat-Free: Cold-pressed to ensure zero trans fats and no chemical residues.
- Healthy Fats: Contains 9–11% ALA (omega-3) and high MUFA for heart health.
- Cooking Uses: Ideal for sautéing, stir-frying, grilling, and baking.
- Smoke Point: 400°F, perfect for high-heat cooking.
- Additional Benefits: Reduces bad cholesterol, supports brain health, and balances omega-6 intake.
2. Jivo Cold-Pressed Mustard Oil
Jivo’s Cold-Pressed Mustard Oil, or Kachi Ghani, is a beloved favourite in Indian kitchens, especially in North and East India. Its bold, pungent flavour adds a distinctive kick to dishes, while its cold-pressed extraction ensures it retains essential nutrients and antioxidants. As one of the best cold-pressed oils in India, this oil is perfect for traditional cooking, bringing both health benefits and rich taste to your meals. Its high smoke point and balanced fat profile make it a versatile choice for everything from deep frying to pickling.
- Trans Fat-Free: Extracted without hydrogenation, ensuring no trans fats.
- Healthy Fats: Rich in MUFA, PUFA, and omega-3 (ALA) with a balanced 6:5 omega-6:omega-3 ratio.
- Cooking Uses: Perfect for deep frying, pickling, and curries.
- Smoke Point: 480°F, ideal for high-heat Indian cooking.
- Additional Benefits: Boosts digestion, has antimicrobial properties, and supports heart health.
3. Jivo Cold-Pressed Sunflower Oil
Jivo’s Cold-Pressed Sunflower Oil is a light, nutrient-packed oil that’s perfect for everyday cooking. Its mild flavour makes it incredibly versatile, blending effortlessly into dishes without overpowering them. Extracted using cold-pressing, this oil retains high levels of vitamin E and healthy fats, earning it a place among the best cooking oils in India. Whether you’re frying, sautéing, or baking, this oil delivers a perfect balance of taste and health, making it a must-have for any kitchen.
- Trans Fat-Free: Mechanically pressed to eliminate trans fats and chemicals.
- Healthy Fats: High in vitamin E and a balanced mix of MUFA and PUFA.
- Cooking Uses: Great for deep frying, sautéing, and baking.
- Smoke Point: 440°F, suitable for most cooking methods.
- Additional Benefits: Supports immunity, fights free radicals, and aids digestion.
4. Jivo Cold-Pressed Groundnut (Peanut) Oil
Jivo’s Cold-Pressed Groundnut Oil reputes for its rich, nutty flavour and impressive health benefits. Popular in Indian households, this oil is cold-pressed to preserve its natural antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it one of the best healthy oils for traditional recipes. Its high smoke point and robust flavour make it ideal for stir-frying, deep frying, and seasoning dishes like poha or sabzi. This oil not only enhances the taste of your meals but also supports heart health and overall wellness.
- Trans Fat-Free: Cold-pressed to ensure no trans fats or harmful residues.
- Healthy Fats: Rich in MUFA, vitamin E, and resveratrol for heart health.
- Cooking Uses: Excellent for stir-frying, deep frying, and seasoning dishes.
- Smoke Point: 450°F, ideal for high-heat cooking.
- Additional Benefits: Reduces chronic disease risk, supports heart health, and adds a nutty flavour.
Conclusion
Trans fats in cooking oils are a hidden danger, but making informed choices can protect your health. With initiatives like Karnataka’s push to reduce trans fats, the focus on safer cooking oils is stronger than ever. By choosing trans fat-free, cold-pressed oils like those from Jivo Wellness, one of the top Indian cold-pressed brands, you can enjoy the best healthy oils that are rich in nutrients and flavour. Jivo’s canola, mustard, sunflower, and groundnut oils are among the best and healthy oils, offering versatility and health benefits for every kitchen. As some of the best cooking oils in India, they help you create delicious, heart-healthy meals. Switch to these oils today and cook with confidence for a healthier Indian cooking!