Have you ever wondered why rapeseed oil is called the "King of Oils" in China? Let's dive into why this oil holds such a prestigious title. Each year, we as a nation consume over 30 million tons of edible oils.

The most consumed oils are soybean oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, and peanut oil. Together, these four oils make up over 80% of our consumption.

Among these, rapeseed oil is particularly special because it is made from the largest domestic production of raw materials, making it a standout in our diet.

Even though soybean oil and palm oil come mainly from imports, rapeseed oil stands out as the leader in the domestic oil market.

Rapeseed Oil: Once the "King of Cooking Oils"

Before 2002, rapeseed oil was the most consumed cooking oil in China, outranking soybean, peanut, and cottonseed oils. However, with an increase in soybean imports, cheap soybean oil became more appealing to many, leading to a shift in consumption patterns.

From 2003 onward, soybean oil became the top choice, replacing rapeseed oil. Despite this, rapeseed oil is still known as the "King of Oils" for its overall nutritional value. In fact, it is one of the healthiest options among the major oils available in the market, especially with the dominance of "double-low rapeseed oil," which offers incredible health benefits.

The Amazing Health Benefits of Rapeseed Oil

So, what makes rapeseed oil so special when it comes to health? It all comes down to its fatty acid profile. Fatty acids are the primary components of oils, and they determine the quality of the oil. Rapeseed oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.

Unsaturated lipids are easier for our bodies to absorb, unlike saturated lipids, which can clog blood vessels and lead to conditions like high blood pressure and atherosclerosis.

Rapeseed oil excels in three key unsaturated fatty acids: oleic acid, linoleic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid. Oleic acid, which is the most easily absorbed unsaturated fatty acid, makes up about 60% of rapeseed oil. This puts it right up there with olive oil and tea oil.

Linoleic acid makes up about 20% of rapeseed oil and helps reduce cholesterol levels and prevent arteriosclerosis. Lastly, alpha-linolenic acid, often called "brain food," is found in rapeseed oil at around 9%, which is a higher percentage compared to most other oils like soybean oil and flaxseed oil.

How Does Rapeseed Oil Compare to Other Oils?

Let's compare rapeseed oil to some other popular oils. While oils like olive oil and tea oil have high oleic acid content, they lack significant amounts of alpha-linolenic acid, which is important for cardiovascular health.

Other oils like corn oil, sesame oil, peanut oil, cottonseed oil, and sunflower oil have a high percentage of linoleic acid but very little alpha-linolenic acid. On the other hand, rapeseed oil strikes a perfect balance, providing a healthy mix of oleic acid, linoleic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid. This makes it a great choice for maintaining good health.

Additional Nutrients in Rapeseed Oil

Aside from its exceptional fatty acid profile, rapeseed oil also contains higher amounts of phytosterols (like rapeseed sterol) compared to other plant oils. These compounds have been shown to promote heart health by lowering cholesterol levels.

Moreover, rapeseed oil is rich in essential trace minerals like iron, copper, and zinc, as well as vitamin E, which provides antioxidant protection. It also contains a unique natural antioxidant called rapeseed polyphenols, which contribute to its overall health benefits.

Conclusion: The Best Oil for Us

In conclusion, rapeseed oil is indeed a superior choice when it comes to cooking oils. It not only tastes delicious but also offers impressive health benefits. From its balanced fatty acid profile to the essential vitamins and antioxidants it provides, rapeseed oil is a winner for anyone looking to eat healthily. Whether you're cooking, frying, or just drizzling it over your salad, rapeseed oil is an excellent option to include in your daily diet.

Lykkers, next time you're choosing an oil for your kitchen, don't forget about the "King of Oils"—rapeseed oil!