Sunday, January 6, 2013

Coconut Oil...Better Shelf Life than Olive Oil

Coconut oil is a liquid substance extracted from the meat of a mature coconut. A very stable substance with a long shelf life, it is used around the world as a safe, flavorful cooking oil, often substituting butter. Many believe that coconut oil offers health benefits, such as boosting the body’s natural metabolism. Although historically popular in tropical countries, millions of people throughout the Western world are including this versatile oil in their cooking regimens.

Another benefit of coconut oil lies in its high stability level. When stored in the proper environment, it can remain stable for many months, or even years.  It can also be used as a soothing, aromatic substitute for skin cream or lotion. Yes, people use coconut oil as a conditioner for their hair.

When cooking, coconut oil can be stirred into oatmeal, soups, and stews. For sauteing, heat coconut oil in a shallow pan for a few minutes and then add your favorite vegetables or use the hot oil to fry fish, potatoes, or chicken. Coconut oil can also be used in baking as a 1 to 1 replacement for butter or other oils.  

 Whether or not to store coconut oil in your refrigerator is based on your personal preference. If you choose to keep it in a pantry or cabinet, rest assured that it will not spoil. Storing coconut oil at room temperature does offer the advantage of easier scooping and spreading.

Coconut oil has an average shelf life of approximately 2 years, making it one of the longest-lasting unrefined cooking oils available, regardless of how many times it transitions between solid and liquid states.

Coconut oil has a melting point of 78˚ F. If you store it outside of the refrigerator, it may turn into a liquid. However, coconut oil has a very high stability and doesn’t break down as easily as olive oil.

There are many references to coconut oil on the internet.  Do your own research.  Here is just one link:

You can purchase coconut oil from many places, but one of my favorites is Vitacost.

Click on this link to buy Coconut Oil from Vitacost.  Low prices and free shipping over $25. (They have an incredible one-day shipping turn around.  Order before noon and get your order the next day!)

 Click on this for $10 off on your order from Vitacost.  Or use my email as a referral.  That way I also get $10 off my next order.  We all WIN!