Wakame, a type of macroalgae, is widely known, but algae cooking oil comes from a different source: microalgae. These tiny, plant-like organisms are invisible to the naked eye and are cultivated to produce the oil. While scientific studies on algae cooking oil remain limited, some health experts suggest it could be a more favorable alternative to traditional seed oils.
Key Points:
- Production Process: Algae cooking oil is derived from microscopic algae cultivated in controlled tanks. These algae are grown to rapidly increase their biomass before being pressed, much like the process used to extract olive oil.
- Nutritional Benefits: Algae cooking oil is rich in omega-9 fatty acids, which are considered healthier than the fats found in many other cooking oils. It is also regarded as an eco-friendly option due to its sustainable production methods.
- Current Research: Although there is minimal scientific data on the long-term risks or benefits of algae cooking oil, nutrition experts often view it as a potentially healthier alternative to seed oils.
When you think of algae, the phrase “healthy ingredient I can’t wait to try” might not be the first thing that comes to mind. More likely, you associate algae with “pond scum.” However, algae is beginning to appear in more kitchens thanks to an innovative product: algae cooking oil.
Algae cooking oil has been gaining traction among wellness enthusiasts, partly due to Algae Cooking Club—a company founded last year that collaborates with celebrity chef Daniel Humm, the owner of New York’s Eleven Madison Park. Algae Cooking Club promotes this oil as an environmentally friendly and versatile alternative to options like olive oil, avocado oil, or seed oils such as canola and corn. While extensive scientific research on algae cooking oil is still lacking, health experts are intrigued by its potential benefits.
“I like olive oil as my main cooking oil, but when I want a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point and a low environmental impact, I prefer algae oil,” says Ann Marie Chiasson, MD, MPH, director of the Fellowship in Integrative Medicine at the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine in Tucson, Arizona. “I try to avoid seed oils, and while I like avocado oil, I think its production is not as environmentally friendly.”
What Is Algae Cooking Oil?
Algae cooking oil is derived from microalgae, single-celled organisms invisible to the naked eye. These organisms are fermented in controlled tanks, where they are fed sugars to rapidly increase their biomass. The oil is then extracted using a process similar to how olive oil is produced.
Algae Cooking Club highlights several key benefits of using this oil:
- Healthy Omega-9 Fats: Algae cooking oil contains approximately 93% omega-9 fats, which is 25% more than olive or avocado oil.
- High Smoke Point: It has a smoke point of 535 degrees Fahrenheit, significantly higher than olive oil, making it ideal for high-heat cooking.
- Low Environmental Impact: Producing algae oil requires minimal time and resources, resulting in fewer carbon emissions compared to canola, olive, or avocado oil.
- Enhances Flavors: The healthy fats in algae oil amplify the flavors of foods, particularly vegetarian dishes and those with subtle seasonings.
- Versatility: It can be used for various cooking methods, including stir-frying, searing, dressings, frying, and baking.
Despite these promising attributes, some experts caution against taking company claims at face value. “There is no independent research that has examined algae cooking oil to substantiate the claims by the companies that make and sell it, regarding smoke point and fatty acid composition,” says Samantha Heller, RD, a registered dietitian in New York City.
Heller adds that the production process can significantly impact the nutrient content of the oil. Depending on how it’s refined, the oil’s fatty acid profile might change to achieve specific cooking and flavor characteristics.
Does Algae Cooking Oil Provide Health Benefits?
One of the main selling points of algae cooking oil is its high concentration of omega-9 monounsaturated fats. Research indicates that omega-9s may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of certain cancers. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) acknowledges credible evidence that oleic acid, a type of omega-9 fat, can reduce the risk of heart disease.
There’s also preliminary evidence suggesting that oleic acid might help preserve cognitive function in older adults. However, it’s unclear whether the algae cooking oil currently on the market retains these benefits.
“Algae oil is better than canola oil and other seed oils,” says Dr. Chiasson, emphasizing the absence of unhealthy components found in seed oils.
Seed oils typically contain high levels of omega-6 polyunsaturated fats, which have been linked to increased inflammation. According to the Cleveland Clinic, chronic inflammation is associated with numerous health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and stroke.
Are There Health Risks With Algae Cooking Oil?
At this stage, the health risks of algae cooking oil remain uncertain due to the lack of comprehensive studies.
“Algae oil appears to be safe to cook with, but there have not been any human studies evaluating the health benefits or adverse effects of dietary algae oil yet,” Heller explains.
For those unsure about which cooking oil is best for their needs, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable. “Talk with your doctor, and if possible, a registered dietitian, to assess your health status and any medications to determine which oil is the healthiest and safest for you,” says Connie Diekman, RD, LD, a registered dietitian based in St. Louis.
The Environmental Perspective
Another compelling argument for algae cooking oil is its sustainability. Unlike traditional oils derived from large-scale agriculture, algae can be grown in controlled environments, requiring less land and water. Additionally, the production process emits fewer greenhouse gases, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
“We’re looking at a future where we need to produce food more efficiently and sustainably,” says Algae Cooking Club spokesperson Sarah Lang. “Algae oil offers a way to meet culinary needs without compromising the health of the planet.”
Culinary Uses and Consumer Adoption
Chefs and food enthusiasts praise algae cooking oil for its versatility. With its high smoke point and neutral flavor, it’s suitable for a wide range of culinary applications, from sautéing vegetables to baking delicate pastries.
“I’ve used algae oil in everything from stir-fries to salad dressings,” says Chef Daniel Humm. “It’s a game-changer for any recipe where you want the ingredients to shine without interference from the oil.”
Despite these advantages, consumer adoption of algae cooking oil has been slow, partly due to its higher price point compared to conventional oils. However, as production scales up and awareness grows, prices are expected to become more competitive.
The Bottom Line
While algae cooking oil shows promise as a healthy and sustainable alternative, it’s essential to approach it as part of a balanced diet. “Using a variety of unsaturated oils helps maintain the delicate balance of fatty acids in the body,” Heller advises. “We don’t want to overconsume any single fatty acid, because they all work together synergistically to help support optimal health.”
For those looking to diversify their cooking oils while making eco-conscious choices, algae oil may be worth exploring. However, as with any emerging product, further research and consumer education will be crucial in determining its long-term viability and benefits.
Recommended For You
