Tips to Identify Pure and Unrefined Groundnut Oil

1. Tips to Identify Pure and Unrefined Groundnut Oil Groundnut oil, also known as peanut oil, is a staple in many Indian kitchens due to its rich flavor, high smoke point, and health benefits. But not all groundnut oils are the same. With so many brands and types available, it’s important to know how to identify pure and unrefined 5 litre groundnut oil from refined or adulterated ones. Whether you’re buying for home cooking or stocking up on a bulk purchase like 5 litres of groundnut oil, quality matters. Here are practical, easy-to-follow tips to help you choose the right one. 1. Check the Color and Clarity Unrefined groundnut oil has a golden-yellow to light brown hue. It’s usually slightly cloudy or hazy, which is normal because it retains natural nutrients, flavors, and minor particles from the peanuts. On the other hand, highly refined oil will appear very clear and light in color—this may look attractive but often means the oil has been heavily processed and stripped of its natural properties.

2. Always choose oil that looks natural and not overly polished. If you’re buying groundnut oil 5 ltr bottles, inspect the bottom of the container. A small amount of residue is a good sign—it shows that the oil hasn’t been overly filtered or refined. 2. Smell the Aroma Pure and unrefined groundnut oil has a nutty, earthy aroma that’s unmistakable. The smell should remind you of roasted peanuts or peanut butter. If the oil has no smell, or smells overly sharp, rancid, or chemical-like, it’s a red flag. When possible, opt for smaller packs to test the aroma before investing in bulk quantities like 5 liter groundnut oil containers. Many trusted brands offer trial packs, which can help you judge the authenticity before buying in bulk. 3. Read the Label Carefully The label tells you more than you think. Look for these signs on a trustworthy bottle of 5 litre groundnut oil: ● Cold-pressed or wood-pressed: This means the oil was extracted without high heat, helping retain nutrients. ● Unrefined or filtered: These terms mean the oil hasn't gone through chemical refining, which is ideal for nutritional quality. ● No additives or preservatives: Pure groundnut oil should have no added colors, fragrances, or chemicals. ● FSSAI approval: In India, always ensure the brand is registered and approved by FSSAI for food safety compliance. Labels also indicate the manufacturing and expiry dates. Fresh oil delivers the best taste and health benefits. 4. Conduct a Simple Home Test If you already have groundnut oil at home and want to test its purity, try this easy method:

3. ● Freezing test: Place a small quantity of the oil in a glass container and refrigerate it overnight. Pure groundnut oil tends to thicken or crystallize slightly in the fridge, while adulterated oils may not change consistency much. ● Solubility test: Mix a teaspoon of the oil in a glass of alcohol (preferably ethanol). If it forms layers or settles unevenly, it may be impure. These aren’t foolproof, but they give you a good starting point if you're concerned about quality. 5. Taste the Oil When used in cooking, unrefined groundnut oil adds a distinct, slightly nutty taste that enhances flavor without overpowering the dish. It’s especially good for Indian dishes, deep frying, or sautéing vegetables. If the taste is flat or leaves a bitter aftertaste, chances are it's either refined or of poor quality. This can be particularly disappointing when you’ve bought groundnut oil 5 ltr packs for regular use, so always taste test early. 6. Know the Source Buying from a trusted source is one of the best ways to ensure you’re getting pure groundnut oil. Reputable brands often share details about where the peanuts are sourced, how the oil is processed, and what quality controls are followed. Local cold-pressed mills or certified organic suppliers often offer the best quality, but several trusted national brands have also entered the cold-pressed market. One such name gaining attention for authenticity and quality is Shop Gulab. 7. Go for Cold-Pressed Oils for Maximum Nutrition Cold-pressed or wood-pressed groundnut oil is extracted by pressing peanuts at low temperatures, usually using traditional wooden ghani or rotary methods. This

4. method helps retain essential nutrients like vitamin E, monounsaturated fats, and antioxidants, making the oil more suitable for everyday health-conscious cooking. When buying in bulk—say, 5 litre groundnut oil—it’s worth checking whether it’s cold-pressed, as this adds real value to your purchase beyond just volume. 8. Watch the Pricing While pricing alone isn’t an indicator of quality, unusually low prices can be a warning sign. Pure and unrefined groundnut oil requires high-quality peanuts and slower processing, which naturally makes it a bit costlier than mass-produced refined oils. Compare prices across brands, but don’t let a cheaper 5 liter groundnut oil container fool you. If it’s too cheap to be true, it probably is. Final Thoughts Choosing pure and unrefined groundnut oil is not just about flavor—it’s about health, quality, and peace of mind. From checking the color and aroma to reading the label and knowing the source, these small steps can make a big difference in your kitchen. Whether you’re a home cook or a small food business, buying in bulk like 5 litres of groundnut oil makes sense for economy and convenience. Just make sure what you’re buying is truly natural and unrefined. Looking for a trusted source? Choose purity with Shop Gulab’s range of cold-pressed, unrefined groundnut oil. Available in multiple sizes including convenient 5 litre groundnut oil packs, Shop Gulab ensures you get quality you can taste. Contact us today to place an order or learn more about our oil selection.