Cold-pressed vs. hot-pressed edible oil production: nutrient retention and efficiency analysis

In the modern edible oil industry, cold pressing and hot pressing are two of the most commonly used extraction methods. Understanding the differences in processing technology, applicable oilseeds, equipment selection, and oil quality is crucial for oil mills to optimize production lines, improve efficiency, and meet market demand for high-quality oils.

1. Cold pressing: Low-temperature preservation of high-quality oils

Main Features

Cold pressing involves low-temperature extraction, typically maintaining the oilseed temperature between 40-60°C (104-140°F). Compared to hot pressing, this method preserves the oil's natural nutrients, including vitamins (such as vitamin E and carotenoids), antioxidants (such as polyphenols and unsaturated fatty acids), and bioactive proteins.

Low-temperature processing can also reduce oxidation, extend shelf life, and enhance flavor and aroma.

Suitable oilseeds and applications

Cold pressing is an ideal method for producing high-value, healthy oils, such as extra virgin olive oil, flaxseed oil, walnut oil, sunflower oil, sesame oil, and other nut and seed oils.

Cold-pressed cake can be further processed into food ingredients or high-protein animal feed, adding extra value.

Recommended equipment

Features of our cold oil press:

• ✅ Compact structure and easy operation

• ✅ Low residual oil content for maximum output

• ✅ Screw design customized for different oilseeds

• ✅ Ideal for small-batch, high-value oil production

This equipment is designed specifically for producers who aim to maximize nutritional value and target the premium oil market.

2. Hot pressing: Highly efficient industrial-scale production

Main advantages

Hot pressing combines high-temperature cooking with mechanical pressing, typically operating at temperatures ranging from 100–120°C (212–248°F). Its advantages include:

• ✅ High oil yield, with a residual oil rate of around 6-8%.

• ✅ The process is stable and suitable for continuous, large-scale production.

• ✅ Compatible with solvent extraction, which can improve overall oil recovery rate.

Hot pressing significantly reduces production costs and meets the needs of large-scale oil processing plants.

Suitable oilseeds and applications

Hot pressing is commonly used for bulk oilseeds such as soybeans, rapeseed, peanuts, cottonseed, and corn germ.

The extracted oil can be further refined for use in edible oil production, industrial applications, or export.

Recommended equipment

Our screw oil press offers:

• ✅ Heavy steel structure, resistant to high temperature and high pressure

• ✅ Highly efficient and stable, verified by customers in 100+ countries.

• ✅ Customization is available based on various oilseeds and production capacity.

3. Cold pressing vs. hot pressing: Comparison table

recommend:

• ✅ For high-quality, nutrient-rich oil, choose cold-pressed oil.

• ✅ For large-scale production and industrial efficiency, hot pressing is more suitable.

4. Our Advantages

• ✅ Customized edible oil processing solutions for different oilseeds and production capacities

• ✅ Equipment design that balances oil quality and production efficiency

• ✅ Complete global service, including installation, training and technical support

• ✅ Extensive experience in over 100 countries, providing reliable performance.

5. FAQ

Question 1: Which is healthier, cold-pressed oil or hot-pressed oil?

A1: Cold-pressed oils retain more natural nutrients and antioxidants, making them ideal for health-conscious consumers. Hot-pressed oils have a higher yield, but may lose some vitamins and antioxidants.

Q2: How to choose the right capacity for an oil press?

A2: Capacity selection should consider daily processing capacity, oilseed type, market demand, and investment budget. Penguin provides customized solutions to optimize ROI.

Q3: What is the difference in taste between cold-pressed oil and hot-pressed oil?

A3: Cold-pressed oils have a fresh, aromatic flavor, while hot-pressed oils have a more neutral flavor and are suitable for cooking and industrial processing.

Q4: What can be done with the pressed cake?

A4: Both cold-pressed and hot-pressed cakes can be used as high-protein animal feed or processed into food ingredients to increase overall value.

📞Contact us now : Let our experts design the best cold or hot pressing production line for your oilseeds.