Camelina oil has been a hot topic in the world of health and food lately, and for good reason. This perfect cooking oil is an ancient oil seed and relative of the mustard family that originated in parts of Northern Europe and Central Asia. It thrives in cold temperatures, and is grown by Three Farmers in south east Saskatchewan as the only cold-pressed non-GMO camelina oil on the Canadian market. Not only is camelina oil an extremely versatile cooking oil, it also has a strong nutritional profile and stands the test against other cooking oils, offering a high smoke point, a great source of vitamin E and perfect omega fatty acid ratio.

Health Benefits of Camelina Oil

Camelina oil is known for its balanced ratio of omega fatty acids, offering 4g of Omega-3 in in every tablespoon. It also has a higher amount of Omega-3 than 6, whereas most refined oils have a high amount Omega-6, making the camelina oil ratio for essential fatty acids the most attractive on the market. Dietary fats are an important part of a healthy diet that our body requires for many uses, including benefiting skin health, transporting oxygen throughout the body, preventing premature aging and promoting cognitive function. Camelina oil is also high in Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that protects your body from free radicals.

4 Additional therapeutic properties of camelina oil include

1. Anti-Inflammatory

Consuming camelina oil reduces inflammation, and the high amount of omega-3s can help alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis

2. Immune booster

The high Vitamin E content is effective for boosting the immune system

3. Heart health

Camelina oil helps lower blood triglyceride levels which helps reduce the risk of heart disease

4. Brain and nerve health

Foods rich in Omega-3s, like camelina oil, may help protect the body from cognitive issues and nervous system damage

The Three Farmers Camelina Oil is especially beneficial for your health because they are 100% natural, chemical free and cold-pressed. The process that they use to extract the oil is a safer alternative from conventional methods that uses pressure and processes at temperatures no higher than 40 degrees Celsius, which ensures that none of the nutrients are lost.

(Image Source: http://threefarmers.ca/camelina-oil)

Camelina Oil vs Other Oils

As you will see in the graph below, camelina oil has the most ideal ratio of essential fatty acids when compared to other oils, such as coconut oil, flax oil, olive oil, hemp oil, grapeseed oil and avocado oil. In comparison to olive oil, camelina has a higher smoke point, making it a healthier alternative for cooking at all temperatures, including high heat. When considering flax oil, it offers a beneficial Omega-3 profile, but does not offer the extended shelf life of camelina oil, which is 24 month. The shelf life of camelina oil is due to its high levels of Vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant and extends its shelf like above any other expeller pressed oils. lastly, when comparing to grapeseed and avocado oil, which are both used for their high smoke points, camelina oil remains superior for its Omega-3 content and an overall more balanced fatty acid profile.

(Image Source: http://threefarmers.ca/camelina-oil)

How to Use It

Camelina oil offers a light, subtle and earthy flavour that is suitable for making dressings, dips, marinades, or a cooking oil. It doesn’t gel like some other oils, so camelina oil can act as a great base for overnight dressings and marinades. Due to its high smoke point of 475 Fahrenheit Celsius, camelina oil is also a great option for stirfrying, sauteeing and grilling and will retain all of its flavour and nutrients. When heated, you will notice a beautiful nutty flavour and sweetness to the oil that will add a lot of memorable flavour to your dish and enhance the flavour of your ingredients.

Try out these three flavours of Three Farmers Camelina Oil in your next dish:

Three Farmers Original Camelina Oil

A light, subtle flavour with hints of asparagus and a gentle nuttiness, our original suits your every culinary need. Incorporate Three Farmers Camelina Oil into your every day diet and all your favourite meals! 

Three Farmers Camelina Roasted Garlic & Chili

The irresistible taste of roasted garlic paired with the kick of hot chili makes Three Farmers Camelina Roasted Garlic & Chili Oil perfect for pasta and stir-fry.

Three Farmers Camelina Roasted Onion & Basil

The subtle sweetness of roasted onion coupled with fresh, herbal notes of Thai basil; makes Three Farmers Camelina Roasted Onion & Basil Oil perfect for seasonal salads.