Carrier Oils do not have the intense flavor of essential oils, but they can enhance the other flavor ingredients in the food and add moisture and nutritive content. Some Carrier Oils, such as Black Seed Oil and Hemp Seed Oil and MCT Oil, are highly prized for their nutritive content and taken as Dietary Supplements.
Food Ingerdients
Carrier oils are vegetable oils extracted from the seeds, nuts, or kernels of plants. Most Carrier Oils -- also known as non-volatile “Fixed Oils” -- are unscented or naturally lightly-scented, non-toxic, and non-irritating. Many carrier oils are perfectly safe for human consumption and can be used as delicious and nutritious food ingredients. They have been used for centuries in cuisines around the world.
Carrier oils are generally safe to ingest, and bring a number of nutritional benefits to your food formulations
Natural source
Derived from plants, carrier oils are free of artificial additives and chemicals.
High in healthy fats
Many carrier oils, like avocado and grapeseed oils, are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial to health. They can be used to replace or supplement other fats, such as butter or lard.
Vitamin and mineral content
Some carrier oils contain vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, and other essential nutrients like vitamin K and magnesium.
Minimal processing
Cold-pressed oils, the preferred choice for consumption, involve minimal processing and heat, preserving the oil's natural nutrients and flavor.
Beyond the nutritive benefits they provide, Carrier oils are used in food formulations for a variety of other reasons.
Culinary Uses of Carrier Oils
Salad dressing: Drizzle carrier oils like olive oil, sesame oil, or walnut oil over salads for a flavorful and healthy boost.
Marinades: Carrier oils can help infuse herbs and spices into marinades, adding depth and richness to meats and vegetables.
Dipping oils: Blend your favorite carrier oil with herbs, spices, and even balsamic vinegar for a delicious dipping sauce for bread or crudités.
Baked goods: Add moisture and richness to cakes, muffins, and other baked goods by using carrier oils like almond oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil in your recipes.
