How Groundnut Oil is Made: A Step-by-Step Guide from Farm to Table

Groundnut oil, also known as peanut oil, is a widely used cooking oil known for its mild flavor, high smoke point, and numerous health benefits. But have you ever wondered how groundnut oil is made? From cultivation to extraction and packaging, the production of high-quality groundnut oil involves multiple steps to ensure purity and freshness.

In this detailed guide, we will take you through the entire process of groundnut oil production.

Step 1: Cultivation and Harvesting

The journey of groundnut oil begins with the cultivation of peanut plants. Peanuts thrive in warm climates with well-drained sandy soil.

Key Aspects of Cultivation:

• Soil Preparation: Farmers prepare the soil by plowing and adding organic matter to enhance fertility.
• Seed Selection: High-yield, disease-resistant peanut varieties are chosen.
• Planting: Peanuts are planted in rows, typically between April and June, depending on the climate.
• Irrigation & Pest Control: Proper watering and protection against pests and diseases ensure a healthy yield.
• Harvesting: Peanuts are ready for harvest after 4-5 months when the leaves turn yellow and pods mature. They are then uprooted and dried before processing.

Step 2: Cleaning and Shelling

Once harvested, peanuts go through a cleaning and shelling process.

• Cleaning: The harvested peanuts are sorted to remove dirt, debris, and damaged pods.
• Shelling: Peanuts are mechanically shelled to separate the kernels from the outer shells.
• Sorting: The kernels are further sorted to eliminate impurities before moving to the extraction phase.

Step 3: Roasting (Optional)

Roasting enhances the flavor and aroma of groundnut oil. This step is common in traditional oil extraction methods.

• Dry Roasting: Peanuts are roasted in large rotating drums or ovens.
• Cooling: Roasted peanuts are cooled before crushing to prevent heat damage to the oil.

Step 4: Oil Extraction

There are different methods used to extract groundnut oil:

1. Cold Pressing Method

• Peanuts are mechanically pressed without using heat, ensuring a more nutritious oil with natural flavors.
• Cold-pressed oils retain essential nutrients and antioxidants.

2. Expeller Pressing Method

• Peanuts are crushed under high pressure, generating some heat.
• This method provides a higher yield than cold pressing.

3. Solvent Extraction

• A chemical solvent, usually hexane, is used to extract oil from peanut cake.
• The oil is then refined to remove residual solvents.

Read more: How to Choose the Best Groundnut Oil Brands in India

Step 5: Filtration and Refining

After extraction, the oil undergoes filtration and refining to remove impurities.

• Filtration: The crude oil passes through fine mesh filters to remove solid particles.
• Neutralization: Acidic components are removed to improve stability.
• Bleaching: Natural pigments and unwanted colors are eliminated.
• Deodorization: The oil is steamed to remove strong odors, making it more palatable.

Cold-pressed oils usually skip refining to retain their natural goodness.

Step 6: Quality Testing

To ensure safety and nutritional quality, peanut oil is tested for:

• Purity: Free from contaminants and adulterants.
• Nutritional Content: Rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
• Shelf Life: Checked for oxidation resistance and storage stability.

Step 7: Packaging and Distribution

Once the oil passes quality checks, it is packed into different containers:

• Glass bottles, PET bottles, or metal cans ensure safe storage.
• Proper labeling includes nutritional facts, expiration date, and certification details.
• The packaged oil is then distributed to supermarkets and stores worldwide.

Step 8: Consumption and Storage Tips

How to Store Groundnut Oil:

• Keep in a cool, dark place to prevent rancidity.
• Store in an airtight container to avoid oxidation.
• Use within the recommended shelf life for optimal freshness.

Uses of Groundnut Oil:

• Cooking & Frying: Ideal for deep-frying due to its high smoke point.
• Salad Dressings: Used in dressings and marinades.
• Cosmetics & Pharmaceuticals: Found in skincare products due to its moisturizing properties.

Final Thoughts

Groundnut oil is a staple in many households and food industries, offering multiple health benefits and versatility. Understanding how it is made ensures you choose high-quality oil, whether cold-pressed or refined. Whether you’re a consumer or a business looking to source premium groundnut oil, knowing its production process helps make informed decisions.

FAQs

1. Is groundnut oil healthy for cooking?

Yes, groundnut oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, making it a heart-healthy choice for cooking.

2. What is the difference between cold-pressed and refined oil?

Cold-pressed oil is extracted without heat, retaining more nutrients, while refined oil undergoes processing to remove impurities and extend shelf life.

3. Can groundnut oil be used for deep frying?

Yes, due to its high smoke point, groundnut oil is excellent for deep frying.

4. How long does peanut oil last?

Properly stored peanut oil can last up to 6–12 months.

5. Is peanut oil suitable for people with peanut allergies?

People with peanut allergies should consult a doctor before consuming groundnut oil, as it may still contain trace allergens.