Sunflower Oil (Linoleic, less than 60%)
Sunflower oil is a widely used vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the sunflower plant. It is known for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it an excellent choice for cooking, frying, and baking. Sunflower oil contains a high percentage of linoleic acid (less than 60%), which contributes to its liquid consistency at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (per 100g):
- Energy: 884 kcal
- Fat: 100g
- Saturated Fat: 10.1g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamins & Minerals:
- Vitamin E: 41.08 mg (excellent source)
- Iron: 0.03 mg
- Copper: 0 mcg
- Magnesium: 0 mg
- Phosphorus: 0 mg
- Potassium: 0 mg
- Calcium: 0 mg
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Zinc: 0 mg
- Manganese: 0 mg
- Selenium: 0 mcg
- Vitamin C: 0 mg
- Thiamine (Vitamin B1): 0 mg
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): 0 mg
- Niacin (Vitamin B3): 0 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0 mg
- Folate (Vitamin B9): 0 mcg
- Vitamin A: 0 mcg
- Vitamin D2: 0 mcg
- Vitamin B12: 0 mcg
Allergen Information:
Sunflower oil is generally considered safe for most people and is not a common allergen. However, individuals with sunflower allergies should avoid this oil. Always check for potential allergens in processed products that may contain sunflower oil as an ingredient.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegan: Suitable for vegan diets, as it contains no animal-derived ingredients.
- Gluten-Free: Sunflower oil is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Kosher: This oil may meet kosher dietary standards, but verification with a reliable certification is advised.
- Non-GMO: Many sunflower oils are non-GMO, but it’s important to verify the product’s specifications.
Cooking Tips:
Sunflower oil’s high smoke point makes it ideal for high-heat cooking methods like frying, stir-frying, and roasting. Its neutral flavor ensures it won’t overpower the taste of your dishes, making it versatile for a variety of culinary applications. Sunflower oil can also be used for baking, salad dressings, or as a base for marinades.
Conclusion:
Sunflower oil (linoleic) is a nutrient-dense oil that provides essential fats, particularly polyunsaturated fatty acids, and a good dose of vitamin E. While it is not a significant source of other vitamins and minerals, its versatility in the kitchen and health benefits, especially from its high vitamin E content, make it a staple in many households. Always ensure that you are selecting a high-quality, non-GMO version for the best culinary results.
