When it comes to cooking oils, hemp oil vs RBD coconut oil are two popular choices that many people turn to for their health benefits. Both oils have made their way into kitchens as go-to options for healthy cooking, with each offering its own unique set of advantages.
But with so many options out there, it begs the question: which one is actually better for your cooking needs? Let’s dive in and see how these two stack up against each other!
What Is Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil is derived from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. The oil is cold-pressed from the seeds, which preserves its nutrient-rich properties.
Hemp oil is known for its high concentration of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). These fatty acids play important roles in the body, promoting heart health and supporting healthy skin. The oil also contains antioxidants and vitamins, which are beneficial for overall wellness.
The Difference Between Hemp Oil vs RBD Coconut Oil
Hemp oil and RBD coconut oil differ in several key areas, such as how they’re made, their nutritional profiles, and how they perform in cooking. Let’s break down these differences to help you decide which one is right for your needs!
1. How They’re Made
Hemp oil is made by cold-pressing the seeds of the hemp plant. This method keeps the oil’s nutrients intact, giving it a rich, earthy flavor. Hemp oil is typically dark green in color and is used mostly as a finishing oil for dishes like salads or smoothies. It’s not great for cooking at high temperatures because it has a low smoke point.
RBD oil is made from dried coconut meat (called copra) and then refined, making it a clear, odorless oil with a neutral flavor. This process also increases its smoke point, meaning it can handle higher cooking temperatures, which makes it a great choice for frying or baking.
2. Smoke Point and Cooking Uses
The smoke point of hemp oil is around 330°F (165°C), which is relatively low. This means it’s best for low-heat cooking or used in raw dishes like salad dressings, dips, or drizzled on finished dishes.
When heated too much, hemp oil can break down and lose its nutritional value, which is why it’s not ideal for frying or sautéing.
RBD coconut oil has a much higher smoke point of about 400-450°F (204-232°C), making it more versatile for high-heat cooking. You can use RBD coconut oil for stir-frying, sautéing, frying, and even baking without worrying about it breaking down.
This makes a perfect decision to use RBD coconut oil for cooking a variety of dishes that require cooking at higher temperatures.
3. Flavor
Hemp oil has a strong, nutty, earthy flavor that some people love, but it may not be suitable for all types of cooking. Its bold taste is perfect for raw applications like salad dressings or smoothies, where you want its unique flavor to shine through.
However, its flavor can overwhelm certain dishes, especially if you don’t want the oil to stand out too much.
RBD coconut oil has a neutral flavor since it’s been refined. This makes it a versatile oil that won’t overpower the flavors of your food. You can use it for almost any dish, from stir-fries to baked goods, without changing the taste of your meals.
4. Health Benefits
The health benefits of hemp oil are primarily linked to its rich content of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which promote heart health by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.
These fats also support healthy skin, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and even help balance hormones. Hemp oil is also considered to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with conditions like arthritis.
The health benefits of RBD coconut oil are mostly attributed to its MCTs and lauric acid. MCTs are quickly absorbed by the liver, providing your body with immediate energy, making RBD coconut oil a good choice for those looking to boost their metabolism or support their exercise routine.
5. Shelf Life
Hemp oil has a shorter shelf life because it’s rich in unsaturated fats, which can become rancid over time. It’s best to store hemp oil in a cool, dark place and use it within a few months of opening to maintain its freshness.
Due to its high level of saturated fats, RBD coconut oil has a long shelf life. It can last for months or even years if stored properly in a cool, dark place. Its stable nature makes it a reliable pantry staple that won’t go bad quickly.
RBD Coconut Oil
- RBD Coconut Oil has a high smoke point
- Can withstand higher temperatures without burning or producing harmful compounds
- Enable to achieve delightful textures and flavors in your dishes
Hemp Oil vs. RBD Coconut Oil: A Nutritional Comparison
To better understand the health benefits of these oils, let’s compare their nutritional content:
A. Fatty Acids
Hemp oil is an excellent source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These polyunsaturated fats are essential for human health, as the body cannot produce them on its own.
They play a crucial role in reducing inflammation, supporting brain function, and promoting heart health. Hemp oil contains a healthy 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, which is considered ideal for a balanced diet.
On the other hand, RBD coconut oil is mostly made up of saturated fats, specifically medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are also known for supporting weight loss and improving cognitive function.
B. Vitamins and Antioxidants
Hemp oil contains vitamins like Vitamin E, which is a potent antioxidant that helps protect the body from oxidative stress. It also contains other essential vitamins like Vitamin A and B vitamins (such as B1, B2, and B3), which support skin health, energy levels, and proper metabolism.
RBD coconut oil also contains some Vitamin E, but it’s not as rich in antioxidants compared to hemp oil. However, RBD coconut oil still provides lauric acid, a type of fatty acid known for its antimicrobial properties.
C. Caloric Content
Both oils are calorie-dense, with approximately 120 calories per tablespoon. However, the main difference lies in the types of fats they provide.
Hemp oil offers healthier polyunsaturated fats, while RBD coconut oil is higher in saturated fats, but the medium-chain triglycerides in coconut oil offer quicker energy conversion.
D. Omega-6 and Omega-3 Ratios
Hemp oil offers a 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, which is considered beneficial for reducing inflammation and promoting heart health. However, the high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 in hemp oil may not be ideal for those who already consume large amounts of omega-6 fatty acids in their diet.
RBD coconut oil lacks a significant amount of omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids but compensates with MCTs, which provide instant energy, support weight management, and have anti-inflammatory benefits.
E. Natural Composition
| Nutrients | Hemp Oil (1 tbsp) | RBD Coconut Oil (1 tbsp) |
| Calories | 125 | 120 |
| Polyunsaturated | 11g | 1g |
| Monounsaturated | 2g | 1g |
| Saturated | 1g | 12g |
| Trans Fat | 0 | 0 |
| Total Fat | 14g | 14g |
| Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between hemp oil and RBD coconut oil, it really boils down to what you’re looking for in your kitchen. While both oils have their unique benefits, RBD coconut oil wins for its versatility, higher smoke point, and long shelf life, making it the go-to for most cooking needs.
And if you’re looking to purchase RBD coconut oil (or other amazing coconut products) in bulk, why not check out Sari Coconut? They are the best certified supplier of coconut derivatives from Indonesia, offering a wide range of coconut products like coconut oil, coconut charcoal briquettes, coconut sugar, coconut fiber, and more!
If you’re a food and beverage business owner or just someone who loves all things coconut, Sari Coconut is your trusted partner for RBD coconut oil supplier. Reach out to them today and dive into the world of high-quality coconut derivatives!
FAQ
Can I use hemp oil for cooking?
Hemp oil has a low smoke point, making it less ideal for high-heat cooking. It is best used in salads, dressings, or as a drizzle on finished dishes.
Is RBD coconut oil healthier than hemp oil?
While both oils offer unique health benefits, RBD coconut oil is more versatile in cooking and provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are beneficial for energy and metabolism. Hemp oil is rich in omega fatty acids but is less suitable for high-heat cooking.
