Alga Oil Called Healthier Than Ordinary Cooking Oil

Alga oil illustration (Freepic)

JAKARTA - Daniel Humbuh, Michelin-star chef who is also the owner of Eleven Madison Park's restaurant, said that alga oil is a healthier and more versatile choice compared to ordinary cooking oil.

Oil alga was introduced in collaboration with the Algae Cooking Club, which collaborates with Huju to popularize this product.

Alga oil is made from microalga fermented in large stainless steel tanks. The microalga is given sugar, which is then converted into oil by microorganisms through natural processes.

Alga oil has a unique fat composition, making it an attractive choice for culinary lovers and home cooks who want healthy oil without sacrificing taste. Based on information from the Algae Cooking Club, this oil contains a single unsaturated fat Omega-9 of 93%, double unsaturated fat Omega-6 of 3%, and saturated fat of only 4%.

Another advantage of alga oil is its flexibility in various cooking methods, such as roasting, frying, to being used as an ingredient in sauce or dressing. With a very high spot of smoke, which is 535 degrees Fahrenheit, this oil maintains the taste and texture of the food, even when used at high temperatures.

In comparison, pure olive oil has a lower smog spot, about 410 degrees Fahrenheit, so its use is limited to lower temperatures.

This alga oil is so pure that it does not leave a bitter taste or taste, even when heated at high temperatures. This is the reason we started using it for fried dishes at our restaurant. In addition, this oil does not defeat the natural taste of food ingredients, so the dish still feels in accordance with the original ingredients," Hujah explained as quoted by Antara.

Alga oil is produced through a natural fermentation similar to the process of brewing or wine. The method does not involve pesticides, chemicals, or other additives. The microalga is the main ingredient, producing high quality vegetable oils in a more environmentally friendly way.

Compared to traditional oils that usually come from industrial agricultural practices, the production of alga oil requires far less land, water, and carbon. Alga can produce fats, proteins, and nutrients in just a few days, thus offering a sustainable alternative without sacrificing taste or quality.

Omega-9 fatty acids in alga oil have a number of benefits, such as reducing the risk of inflammation, heart disease, and several types of cancer. With its rich nutritional content, this oil can be a beneficial choice for those who want to adopt a healthy diet.

However, it is important to note that claims related to health benefits, nutritional content, and high incidence of oil smoke still require independent research to ensure validity.

In addition to the health benefits, oil alga also makes a positive contribution to environmental sustainability. With efficient and more earth-friendly production technology, this oil can be an attractive alternative for individuals who care about the environment while at the same time wanting to maintain a healthy diet.