Olive Oil vs. Canola Oil
This article lays emphasis on the benefits of olive oil and canola oil and tells us which one is better for consumption.
Low Smoking Point:
Olive oil has a low smoking point, which means it can only be used for cooking purposes. Canola oil on the other hand, has a higher smoking point and can be used for deep frying and stir frying foods.
Superiority:
Olive oil has always been way more superior to canola oil. It is more rich in many nutrients and minerals and other than cooking, olive oil can be used for many purposes like applying on the hair, body massage, etc. Canola oil does not have any such uses. It is just used for cooking purposes, and even in that, olive oil is chosen over it.
Fat Content:
It is also a known fact that both canola oil and olive oil have 'good fats'. Olive oil obviously has a higher content of 'good fats'. It also has a higher content of monounsaturated fatty acids, as compared to canola oil. Researches show that the good fats present in olive oil are thrice higher than that in canola oil. Olive oil also has higher levels of polyunsaturated fats as compared to canola oil. Although both canola and olive oil have low levels of saturated fats (bad fat), the amount of saturated fats are much higher in olive oil than in canola oil. This proves that olive oil is still better since it contains more good fats than bad fats.
Health Benefits:
Canola oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6-fatty acids. These help in reducing the risk of heart diseases, arthritis and many cancers. Since these essential fatty acids are not manufactured in the body, canola oil is then considered an important source. Olive oil contains omega-3-fatty acids, but the amount is low compared to canola oil.
Cost:
The difference of cost is a major point in these oils. Olive oil is extremely expensive as compared to canola oil, which is relatively cheaper. Olive trees require more maintenance and care, which makes them expensive. Canola plants are cheaper to cultivate and maintain. This makes canola oil more affordable than olive oil.
Taste:
Olive oil is considered too strong by some people to add it into foods. Canola oil is considered better for baking and making salad dressings and stir frying, sautéing and grilling foods. It can also be used and preferred in marinades and sauces.
Culinary Uses:
Since olive oil has a lower smoking point, it is used mainly for cooking purposes only. Canola oil, with its high smoking points, can be used for frying and stir fries.
These olive oil benefits and canola oil benefits help us in choosing which oil is better and for which purpose. Both the oils are beneficial in their own place and both have their drawbacks.