Solvent Extraction

A process that is used to extract oil from fruits, nuts, and seeds. Chemical solvents are used to extract the oil, which is then boiled to eliminate most of the solvent residue. Further refining such as bleaching, deodorizing, and heating to high temperatures cleanses the oil, resulting in a product that has very little of the flavor, aroma, or nutrients originally contained in the seeds, nuts, or fruit before processing. Most of the oils produced with this method have a high smoke point, so they are excellent for most cooking methods. They also have a very long shelf life compared to edible oils obtained by other extraction processes.