Wondering how to tell if oil is cold pressed? Look for clear labels, single ingredients, natural colour, and a strong aroma. Cold pressed oils often have slight cloudiness, rich flavours, and come in dark glass or BPA-free bottles to protect nutrients. Trust transparent brands like Tata Simply Better that use A1-grade seeds and traditional cold pressing methods. This guide helps you identify genuine cold pressed oils and make healthier cooking choices.

How to tell if oil is cold pressed - that’s the question more and more conscious consumers are asking as they seek healthier, cleaner, and more authentic options for their kitchens. At Tata Simply Better, we understand that the oil you choose matters - not just for cooking, but for your overall well-being. But with so many brands on the shelf, how can you really know what you're getting?

We’re cracking open the secrets (and the bottle!) to help you confidently identify genuine cold pressed oil - and avoid the imposters.

What Makes Cold Pressed Oil So Special?

Before diving into how to tell if oil is cold pressed, it’s worth understanding why cold pressed oils are preferred by health-forward households.

Cold pressed oil is extracted using a mechanical press at low temperatures (usually below 50°C), without the use of heat or harmful chemicals. This gentle method retains the oil’s natural aroma, flavour, and - most importantly - its nutrients like vitamin E, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.

But here’s the catch: not every bottle that says “cold pressed” truly lives up to the name.

Look Beyond the Label: What to Watch For

How to tell if oil is cold pressed often starts with scrutinising what’s on the label - and what isn’t. Here's what to look for:

1. Check for Clear Labeling

Look for terms like "cold pressed," "mechanically extracted," or "pressed at low temperatures" on the front and back of the label. Brands that truly cold press their oil are proud to say so!

Pro Tip from Tata Simply Better: Our oils clearly state "cold pressed" and mention the seed source and process-transparency is key.

2. Scan the Ingredients List

Genuine cold pressed oils should have only one ingredient: the seed or nut it's made from. If the label lists preservatives, additives, or "refined oil blends" - walk away.

Look at the Oil: Colour, Clarity & Consistency

Still wondering how to tell if oil is cold pressed? Your eyes can help.

3. Natural Colour

Cold pressed oils tend to have a rich, natural hue. For example:

• Groundnut oil: Golden yellow
  
  

• Mustard oil: Deep amber
  
  

• Coconut oil: Milky white (solid) or clear when melted
  
  

• Olive oil: Greenish-gold

Highly refined oils, on the other hand, often look pale and overly clear.

4. Slight Cloudiness or Sediment

Don’t be alarmed by a little cloudiness or sediment at the bottom of the bottle. That’s a good sign! It means the oil hasn’t been over-processed and still retains its natural compounds.

Smell and Taste: Trust Your Senses

Knowing how to tell if oil is cold pressed is also about using your nose and taste buds.

5. Strong, Natural Aroma

Cold pressed oils carry the distinct scent of their source. If it smells too neutral or artificial, chances are it’s been deodorised or refined.

6. Authentic Flavour

Expect a more robust, nutty or earthy flavour from cold pressed oils. Whether it’s the punch of mustard or the mellow nuttiness of groundnut, flavour is a clear giveaway.

How It's Packaged Matters Too

You’ve checked the label and tested the aroma, but how to tell if oil is cold pressed can also come down to packaging.

7. Dark Glass Bottles or High-Quality PET

Cold pressed oils are sensitive to light and air. Look for oils packaged in dark amber glass bottles or high-grade, BPA-free plastic. This helps protect the nutrients from degrading.

Why Tata Simply Better gets this right: We use packaging designed to retain purity - because even the best oil can go bad if it's not stored right.

The Brand Tells You a Lot

Let’s face it: how to tell if oil is cold pressed also depends on the trustworthiness of the brand. 

8. Brand Transparency

Choose brands that are open about their methods, sourcing, and standards. At Tata Simply Better, we’re proud to bring you oils made from A1-grade seeds and nuts, processed using traditional cold pressing methods, and absolutely free from chemicals and artificial preservatives.

Tata Simply Better: Where Cold Pressed Means Simply Pure

We understand that knowing how to tell if oil is cold pressed helps you make better, more informed choices for your family. And we’re here to make that decision easier.

With Tata Simply Better, Tata Consumer Products has entered into a new category, with a range of cold-pressed oils aimed at consumers who want to include cold-pressed oils in their kitchens. Tata Simply Better has come with various cold-pressed oils - Groundnut, Virgin Coconut, Sesame, Extra Virgin Olive, Mustard and Sunflower Oil,  that provide a healthier and more nutritious alternative to traditional cooking oils.

These oils are carefully extracted to retain their natural goodness, and they are free from trans fats and cholesterol. By using the finest A1-grade ingredients, Tata Simply Better ensures that its products offer a superior culinary experience while promoting overall well-being.