cold pressed rapeseed oil Archives

We’ve been producing cold pressed rapeseed oil on our farm for 20 years and in that time, we’ve seen opinions and trends around culinary oils shift dramatically. It’s been interesting to observe these waves of change – many of which are led by social media influencers, fad diets and quite often backed by misinformation.

Over the past year however, we’ve seen a substantial rise in the use of cold pressed rapeseed oil amongst health-conscious consumers and cooks. We know that the hefty price of olive oil is driving people to more cost-effective culinary oils. But the move to cold pressed rapeseed oil can also be attributed to growing awareness of its nutritional advantages over other cooking oils, backed by a more positive conversation that’s rooted in sound evidence and science.

Doctor Sarah Berry, Professor of Nutrition at King’s College London and Chief Scientist at Zoe discussed at length on the Zoe podcast how seed oils, including rapeseed oil, can lower the risk of heart disease. Nutritionist, May Simpkin published an interesting comparison piece on her blog comparing the nutritional values of British-produced cold pressed oils and heavily processed, refined canola oils. Whilst the Wellness Scoop highlighted the benefits of seed oils, with nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert citing: “Rapeseed oil has very similar properties to olive oil, if not when it’s cold pressed, superior properties, actually. It can be a very good oil to cook with. It’s high in Vitamin E, it’s a natural antioxidant. And there’s so much research that shows it actually lowers bad cholesterol.”

It’s been reassuring to witness the conversation return to sensible territory. We are a company that cares deeply about the provenance of our oil and the benefit it can offer for human health. We’ve always known cold pressed rapeseed oil is a sound choice nutritionally. Our mechanical pressing process preserves natural nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins, resulting in an oil that’s low in saturated fat with the ideal ratio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. The fact that it’s grown here in Britain and offers so much versatility in the kitchen are both equally important attributes to be treasured.

So, thank you to the educated voices working so hard to dispel the myths and present consumers with sound, logical advice when it comes to culinary oils.

We know health can look very different from one person to another, but our ethos has always been to cook from scratch, focus on variety in the diet, use wholefood ingredients and treat yourself now and again. Happy, healthy and balanced – surely that’s a recipe we can all get on board with?

Read more about the health benefits of cold pressed rapeseed oil

Get inspired by our recipes

See our oil comparison

Every great kitchen needs a great culinary oil and we’re delighted to provide our cold-pressed rapeseed oil to some of the most progressive and creative chefs in the UK.

From bistros and pubs to corporate kitchens and fine dining – Mellow Yellow is the counter oil of choice for many commercial kitchens looking for a quality oil that won’t leave a huge dent in that bottom line. And we’re delighted to have some of the best in the business flying the flag for our sustainable oil, including Michelin-starred chef, Adam Gray who was one of the first to switch to Mellow Yellow when we started producing in 2005.

Whilst our focus is national, there’s something rather wonderful about supporting local businesses and we are proud to supply some award-winning restaurants close to our farm in Hargrave, including James Peck’s Ember and the Tollemache Arms in Harrington – winner of the much sought after ‘Great British Pub of the Year‘ Award. But whether it’s local or further afield, our mission will always be to provide the best oil for the job. And with a growing demand from the food service sector, it’s clear that chefs are realising that one of the best quality oils of all might just be right here on this little island of ours!

Not only does cold-pressed rapeseed oil provide a huge saving to businesses in comparison to olive oil, it’s also incredibly tasty and much healthier than typical pomace oils and refined olive oils. Cold pressed rapeseed oil is brimming with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, whilst the subtle nutty flavour and high smoke point make it a dream to work with – bringing not just flavour, but an elevated texture to foods.

But chefs don’t just want quality and flavour, they want ingredients that tell stories, with authenticity, character and sustainability at the core. As a carbon-neutral brand, we are proud to be the sustainable choice here in the UK and have been hugely encouraged by this industry shift championing British produce – and honouring it – in more ways than ever.

Find out more about the value of our cold-pressed rapeseed oil for food service, our sustainability work and our Mellow Yellow values.

Industry praise from Adam and James:

“I have used Mellow Yellow cold pressed rapeseed oil since 2005 in all of my commercial kitchens and also in my kitchen at home. As a chef who is passionate about nutrition and sustainability, it ticks all the boxes for me and is exceptionally versatile and cost effective.”

– Adam Gray

“I love using Mellow Yellow, not only is it local, sustainable and far more cost effective than olive oil, but it is perfect when used around woodfire for its high smoke point, I have been using it for years and will continue to do so.”

– James Peck