The Consequences of Reusing Cooking Oil: What You Need to Know

What happens when you reuse oil multiple times?

We use oil daily in our cooking.Many people have a doubt whether we can reuse oil or not the answer is YES we can reuse cooking oil but to a certain limit.If we reuse the oil beyond the limit then it may result as the following:

• Can release harmful toxins

• Increase the percentage of trans fat

• Become rancid

• Rise to free radicals

Important Points to Consider When Using Oil:

• Avoid overheating the oil

• Refrain from adding salt before deep frying

Total Polar Compounds:

As we discussed earlier, there is indeed a limit to the number of times cooking oil can be reused, which is a crucial consideration for both health and culinary quality. This limit is quantified by a measurement known as the TPC value, or Total Polar Compounds. The TPC value serves as an important indicator of oil degradation, reflecting the breakdown products formed when oil is subjected to high heat during cooking processes. The maximum permissible limit of TPC is set at 25 percent. This means that once the TPC of cooking oil exceeds this threshold, it is not recommended to continue using that oil for cooking purposes. The reason for this caution is rooted in health concerns; oil that has surpassed the

25 percent TPC threshold may contain harmful compounds that can pose risks to human health, including potential carcinogens. Furthermore, using oil with a high TPC can negatively affect the flavor and quality of the food being prepared. The taste may become rancid or off-putting, which can ruin the culinary experience. It is also important to note that the rate at which cooking oil reaches this TPC limit can be influenced by several factors, including the type of oil, the cooking temperature, the duration of cooking, and the frequency of use. For instance, oils with higher smoke points, such as canola or peanut oil, may withstand more cooking cycles compared to oils with lower smoke points, like olive oil.

Additionally, deep frying or cooking at high temperatures can accelerate the formation of polar compounds, leading to a quicker rise in TPC levels. In practice, to ensure both safety and quality, it is advisable to monitor the condition of cooking oil regularly. This can be done through simple methods such as visual inspection for clarity and odor, or more accurately through laboratory testing for TPC values. By adhering to these guidelines and being mindful of the TPC limit, one can maintain a healthier cooking environment and enhance the overall quality of prepared dishes.

So, What to do with the used Cooking oil?

The Indian Biodiesel Association has been asked by the FSSAI to create a nationwide ecosystem to collect cooking oil to convert it into biodiesel.