There are three kinds of coconut oils- Pure coconut oil, Virgin coconut oil(VCO) and RBD(refined bleached, deodorized) coconut oil. Among the three, pure and virgin coconut oils are unrefined oils but differ in their processing methods. Here is a comparison among the unrefined & refined coconut oils.
Raw Material
For all types of coconut oils, mature coconut is the raw material. To make virgin coconut oil, fresh white coconut meat/kernel is used. On the contrary, pure and refined coconut oils are produced from dried coconut meat aka copra.
Level of processing
Virgin coconut oil is an unrefined oil with least processing. Whereas pure coconut oil involves slightly more processing. Refined coconut oil is the most processed. Less processing equates to more nutrients and greater health benefits for consumers.
Method of processing
- Virgin coconut oil: Extracted from coconut milk from fresh coconut meat. Oil extractors separate the oil from the milk. Avoids the use of any chemical additives.
- Pure coconut oil: Produced by pressing oil from shredded copra. This method also avoids chemicals.
- Refined coconut oil: Extracted from shredded copra. This oil undergoes chemical treatments during refining. Bleached to remove natural color. Also, deodorized to eliminate the coconut scent.
Oil composition
Coconut oil consists of fatty acids such as lauric acid, stearic acid, caprylic acid and myristic acid. They are beneficial compounds. VCO and pure coconut oil contain these acids and other nutrients in higher amounts(over 90%). In contrast, RBD coconut oil retains significantly lower amounts.
Appearance
Coconut oil is in liquid form at temperatures above 24C or 76F. In liquid stage,
- Virgin coconut oil is almost transparent.
- Unrefined/pure coconut oil has an ivory-white appearance.
- Refined/RBD coconut oil has a yellowish tint.
Aroma
- Virgin coconut oil has a strong, nutty and distinct coconut flavor.
- Pure coconut oil retains a mild coconut aroma.
- RBD coconut oil is odorless.
Price
- Virgin coconut oil is the most expensive. That’s due to minimal processing and higher nutrient retention.
- Pure coconut oil is moderately priced.
- RBD oil is the least expensive, reflecting its lower nutritional value and extensive processing.
Conclusion
The above varieties of coconut oil give consumers options. Selecting the right kind depends on your needs and preferences. Virgin coconut oil(VCO) is the healthiest and most flavorful. Pure coconut oil offers a balance of quality and cost. Refined coconut oil is affordable but less nutritious. Comparison among these refined and unrefined coconut oil types helps you make the best choice.
Basically, coconut oil is a popular and versatile oil. Its uses range from being a healthy cooking oil, household product, to a natural beauty care solution. Here are various uses of coconut oil.