Yes, coconut oil can be yellow – refined coconut oil traditionally is. Nevertheless, a yellow hue isn’t always a good sign.
This is the first time that many of my clients are using coconut oil, which means that all the types and colors can throw them off. This is why I am often asked is coconut oil yellow. As I have done quite a bit of research into the oil, I do have an answer!
This post goes into the color of coconut oil, why various shades exist, and more! Let’s get started!
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If you’ve noticed different shades of coconut oil, then you may be wondering what the actual color of the oil is. Well, as you are probably aware, there are two main types of coconut oil – refined and unrefined coconut oil.
Therefore, the color of the coconut oil will depend on what category it falls under. If you have chosen refined coconut oil, it isn’t uncommon for the oil to have a yellow tint to it. Unrefined coconut oil, on the other hand, will have a whitish, translucent color.
Then, if your coconut oil is yellow, it probably means that you have bought a refined version. Darker yellow shades are usually indicative of a poorer quality of the oil. Therefore, it is best to choose a refined coconut oil that is a paler yellow.
Now, why is refined coconut oil yellow?
Well, as you may know, refined coconut oil goes through several processes. This includes heat, deodorizing, bleaching, etc. As such, the yellow color can be either a result of sediment that has formed during the refining process. Or, the heating of the oil may cause the change in color.
However, you should know that yellow coconut oil isn’t always a good thing. Keep reading to find out when you should be concerned with the color of your coconut oil…
If the coconut oil is yellow throughout – and is refined – then there isn’t anything to be worried about. However, you should pay attention to whether your coconut oil has changed color since it has been in your kitchen.
As mentioned, virgin or unrefined coconut oil is a translucent white color. When it is melted, it becomes clear or transparent. Now, if you begin to notice that your coconut is turning yellow, then this isn’t a good sign. It means that your coconut oil is going bad.
Even if you only notice yellow specks, it still means that the coconut oil has begun to spoil. In fact, if you notice any changes in color, then it is time to toss your coconut oil.
Don’t want to toss your coconut oil just because you’ve seen a few color changes? Well, there are a few other factors that you can then take into consideration.
For instance, does the coconut oil smell off or rancid? This, too, is an indication that your coconut oil has gone bad. If the smell appears to be OK, then you may want to try tasting a bit of the oil. This may give you a better indication of if the oil can still be used.
Under these circumstances, it really is better to be safe than sorry. Even if your coconut oil doesn’t smell or taste bad, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t spoiling. Rather, the oil is probably in the early stage of rancidity. Therefore, it is a good idea to throw it away to avoid getting sick.
Since virgin coconut oil is naturally extracted from coconut meat, without any other intervention, you can’t always guarantee uniformity. There are some changes in the color of the texture of the oil, depending on the coconuts used.
Due to this, it isn’t uncommon to find virgin coconut oil that is slightly yellow in color. Keep in mind that the shade will not be anywhere near the same hue as refined coconut oil.
To make sure that the coconut oil is safe, always check the expiration date. You should also examine the seal to make certain that it is unbroken. And, always run a sniff and taste test just to be certain.
Now, if you find that your virgin coconut oil may also be yellow on occasion, how can you be certain that your coconut is really pure?
Well, your best option is to buy a good brand that is known for its high quality. Fortunately, as the popularity of coconut oil has skyrocketed, there are now more of these brands than ever before. There is plenty for you to choose from.
When looking for pure coconut oil, the label will provide you with everything that you need to know. Look for virgin or unrefined coconut oil. Unlike with olive oil, extra virgin coconut oil doesn’t really mean anything. Therefore, you can stick with regular virgin coconut oil.
Most labels will also tell you whether the coconut has been extracted via cold pressed or expeller pressed method. There isn’t too much difference between these types, but cold pressed coconut oil is healthier for you.
If you are really concerned with the purity of coconut oil, then it may be worth it for you to buy organic. This isn’t necessary, though, as traces of pesticides aren’t really found in coconut meat.
In case you decide to buy organic, don’t simply take a manufacturer at their word. Check whether the coconut oil has received a stamp of approval from the USDA or a similar agency.
It is clear that coconut oil can be yellow, but you do have to pay attention to the color carefully as it can indicate issues. Now, of course, you know exactly what all these hues mean for your coconut oil!
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