What is cold press for oilseeds?

Definition: A type of physical pressing where oilseeds do not undergo high-temperature steaming or roasting; the temperature is controlled at or below 60°C throughout the process, and oil is extracted solely through mechanical pressure. The crude oil typically undergoes only settling and filtration, without the full suite of high-temperature refining steps (degumming, bleaching, and deodorization).

Cold-pressed does not mean unrefined; some industrial cold-pressed oils undergo mild refining but avoid the high-temperature deodorization stage (240–260°C).

Core Process Flow

Oilseed cleaning → Crushing (no seed roasting or high-temperature heat treatment) → Low-temperature mechanical pressing (oil output temperature <60°C) → Filtration/Settling → Finished cold-pressed oil.

Characteristics of Cold-Pressed Oil

1. High nutrient retention: Significant amounts of Vitamin E, phytosterols, polyphenols, and antioxidants are preserved, as heat-sensitive active compounds are not destroyed by high temperatures.
2. Natural flavor: Retains the authentic taste of the oilseed—lightly fragrant and nutty—without the intense, roasted aroma found in hot-pressed oils; the color tends to be lighter.
3. Low oil yield: Compared to hot pressing, the same amount of raw material yields less oil and leaves more residual oil in the press cake; production costs are higher, resulting in a higher retail price.
4. Lower smoke point: Better suited for cold dishes and low-temperature cooking; not suitable for high-heat stir-frying.
5. Shorter shelf life: More prone to oxidation; requires storage in a sealed container away from light.

Drawbacks and Practical Limitations

1. Extremely high requirements for raw material quality: Materials must be fresh and intact; if the raw material is moldy, toxins will remain directly in the cold-pressed oil and cannot be removed through high-temperature refining.
2. Not all oilseeds are suitable for cold pressing.
Suitable for cold pressing: Flaxseed, sunflower seed, camellia seed, walnut, olive. Huatai Gruop supply hot pressing and cold pressing, welcome to visit our factory for business!