Difference between fats and oils


Food / Gastronomy
2023-05-05T21:47:02+00:00

Difference between fats and oils

Introduction

In the kitchen, it is common to use both oils and fats for cooking and making desserts. At first glance, they appear to be the same, but in reality there are some differences. In this article, we will explain the different characteristics of fats and oils and how they can affect our dishes.

What are fats?

Fats are solid components that are derived from animal tissues. Examples of fats include lard, lard, and margarine. Unlike oils, fats are solid at room temperature and are primarily used for cooking savory dishes.

Types of fats

There are two important types of fats: saturated and unsaturated. Saturated fats, such as lard and lard, solidify at room temperature and increase the level of bad cholesterol in the body. On the other hand, the unsaturated fats, like olive oil and sunflower oil, are liquid at room temperature and have a low bad cholesterol content.

What are oils?

Oils are liquid components that are derived from plants and seeds. Examples of oils include coconut oil, canola oil, and palm oil. Unlike fats, oils are liquid at room temperature and are generally used for cooking sweet dishes.

types of oils

As with fats, there are two important types of oils: saturated and unsaturated. Saturated oils, such as coconut oil and palm oil, are solid at room temperature and increase bad cholesterol level in our body. On the other hand, unsaturated oils, such as olive oil and canola oil, are liquid at room temperature and have a low level of bad cholesterol.

List of Examples

  • Saturated fats: lard, lard, margarine, butter.
  • Unsaturated fats: olive oil, sunflower oil, avocado oil, peanut oil.
  • Saturated oils: coconut oil, palm oil, soybean oil, rapeseed oil.
  • Unsaturated oils: canola oil, high oleic sunflower oil, grapeseed oil, walnut oil, almond oil.

In short, fats and oils are essential ingredients in cooking, but it is important to carefully choose which one to use for each type of dish depending on the level of good or bad cholesterol you need. We hope that this article has clarified some doubts and helps you have a healthier kitchen.

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