Healthy Cooking Oils: What Makes One Better Than Another

Walk down any grocery store aisle and you’ll see dozens of bottles claiming to be “healthy.” From canola to sunflower to coconut, the options can feel endless. But not all cooking oils are created equal. Understanding what makes one oil healthier than another can help you cook better, feel better, and make smarter choices in your kitchen.

The main difference comes down to the types of fat inside the oil. Every oil has a mix of three kinds of fat: saturated, polyunsaturated, and monounsaturated. Saturated fats are the ones you want less of, while monounsaturated fats are the stars of the show. They support heart health, help balance cholesterol levels, and are more stable when heated. Oils rich in monounsaturated fats, like high oleic oils, are some of the best for everyday use.

High oleic oils get their name from oleic acid, a healthy fat that makes the oil more stable under heat. That means it won’t break down or create harmful compounds when you fry, roast, or sauté. Many everyday seed oils—like soybean or corn oil—can degrade quickly, especially at high temperatures, affecting both flavor and health. Premium high oleic oils stay clean, clear, and smooth, even after hours of cooking.

Another key factor is how the oil is made. Many cheaper oils are processed with chemical solvents or high heat, stripping away nutrients and leaving behind unwanted residues. Premium oils, on the other hand, are gently pressed or extracted without chemicals. This keeps their vitamins and antioxidants intact. It also gives them a fresher, more natural taste.

Shelf life matters, too. Oils that oxidize easily can turn rancid and lose their nutritional value fast. High oleic oils resist oxidation, meaning they last longer and stay stable on your shelf. They’re also naturally non-GMO and often certified by sustainability programs that support fair farming and environmentally responsible sourcing.

So how do you pick a good one? Look for an oil that’s labeled high oleic, non-GMO, and cold-pressed or naturally processed. Check that it’s light in color, clean in flavor, and doesn’t have a strong or burned smell. These are signs of freshness and quality.

Choosing a better oil is one of the easiest ways to make your meals healthier. The right oil can lower your cholesterol, protect your heart, and enhance every flavor in your food.

At AHHH Love Oil, we’ve created a Premium High Oleic Cooking Oil that checks every box. It’s clean, sustainable, and designed for high performance in every kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, our oil brings better balance, longer life, and rich, natural flavor to every dish. You have to try our 8oz Plain AHHH Love Oil, its like silk in your mouth, smooth, rich, and creamy.

Sources

1. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, “Fats and Cholesterol: Out with the Bad, In with the Good.”

2. Oklahoma State University Extension, “Properties of High Oleic Seed Oils.”

3. National Institutes of Health, “Oleic Acid and Health Benefits.”

4. U.S. Department of Agriculture, “Dietary Fats and Oils Data.”

5. Centra Foods, “The Benefits of High Oleic Oils.”