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Cold pressed oils: a systematic review on physicochemical properties, nutritional composition and pharmacological activities

Dash B, Sarangi A, Nayak A, Das BS, Jena S, Ray A, Panda PC, Nayak S et al.

Frontiers in nutrition, 2026

Abstract

Background: In recent years, there has been increasing interest in novel plant-based oil sources as sustainable alternatives to conventional edible oils. This shift is driven by consumer demand for natural, nutrient-dense, and health-promoting products. Among these, cold-pressed oils have gained prominence as specialty oils. Cold-press extraction is a mechanical, environmental friendly and energy-efficient technique that eliminates the use of heat and solvents, thereby preserving the natural physicochemical and nutritional properties of oils. This method is applied to seeds, kernels, fruits, and peels to obtain oils rich in bioactive compounds.

Aim of the review: This systematic review aims to summarize and critically evaluate the extraction techniques, stability-enhancing strategies, physicochemical characteristics, nutritional composition, and pharmacological activities of various cold-pressed oils. It also highlights current research gaps to guide future investigations.

Methods: Relevant literature was collected from scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and NCBI, as well as peer-reviewed journals. Additional gray literature, including web articles were also examined to ensure a comprehensive review of available information.

Results: Cold-pressed oils retain significantly higher levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and other bioactive compounds compared to refined oils due to minimal processing. These…

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Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.

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