We will explain to you whether rapeseed oil is also healthy and what you should consider when buying it.

Rapeseed oil: The oil with the best fatty acid spectrum

Rapeseed oil has the best range of fatty acids compared to olive and sunflower oil (per 100 grams of oil):
7 g saturated fat,
63 g monounsaturated fatty acids, mainly oleic acid,
28g of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including the omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid and the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid in a 2:1 ratio.
The last point is particularly important: According to a study from 2008, the ratio of 2:1 is considered particularly favorable. According to the study, however, most people consume too few omega-3 fatty acids in relation to omega-6 fatty acids. Sunflower oil, which is also popular, contains a lot of linoleic acid, but hardly any omega-3 fatty acids. In that respect, rapeseed oil is healthier.

What about the quantitatively most important ingredient in rapeseed oil, oleic acid? According to studies, it also has various positive effects on the body:
In diabetic patients, oleic acid reduces insulin resistance.
A review shows that oleic acid strengthens the immune system and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Another review also notes the anti-inflammatory effects of oleic acid. However, he also notes that there is still a need for research to substantiate the finding.
In cell cultures, oleic acid is also said to inhibit the growth of tumor cells. Whether this mechanism works in the same way in the human body has not yet been sufficiently researched.

Apply canola oil: taste and smoke point

Whether you choose a virgin or a refined rapeseed oil also depends on the desired taste: while refined rapeseed oil is tasteless, virgin rapeseed oil has a nutty note. With its characteristic taste, it is particularly suitable for salads or steamed vegetables.

Native rapeseed oil is relatively heat resistant due to its high oleic acid content. For searing or deep-frying, however, it is better to use refined oil. Alternatively, according to Ökolandbau.de, there is now a particularly oil-rich rapeseed oil variety that you can also heat up to a very high temperature.