Health & Nutrition
By Tiffany Joy Yamut, BSN, RNSeptember 17th, 2024

4 Health Benefits of Algae Cooking Oil

Discover 4 health benefits of algae cooking oil, from heart-healthy fats to its high smoke point. Learn why it’s becoming a smart choice for healthier meals.

Key Takeaways:

  • Algae cooking oil is made from microalgae and created specifically for culinary use.
  • It’s lower in saturated fat, rich in omega-9 fats, and contains only a fraction of omega-6s compared to common oils.
  • With its 535°F smoke point, algae cooking oil stays stable at high heat, allowing you to cook delicious meals with fewer harmful compounds.

Algae cooking oil is made from microalgae, a tiny organism that has become an exciting new source for cooking. Unlike algae oil in supplements, this oil is created specifically for use in the kitchen. It has a unique balance of fats that makes it different from many traditional cooking oils.

In this article, we’ll explore what sets algae cooking oil apart and why it is becoming a popular choice for healthier meals.

1. Helps maintain heart health

Algae cooking oil is a heart-friendly choice because it’s naturally lower in saturated fat and rich in omega-9 fats.

Many common cooking oils and fats, such as butter or coconut oil, contain high levels of saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol and put stress on the heart over time. Algae cooking oil, in contrast, contains significantly less saturated fat than these options.

Replacing saturated fats with healthier fats may support cholesterol levels .

In addition, algae cooking oil is naturally high in omega-9 fats, mainly oleic acid — the same beneficial fat found in olive oil and avocados. Studies suggest that oleic acid may support lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and reduce inflammation, all of which support heart health .

By using algae cooking oil for everyday cooking — whether sautéing vegetables or frying eggs — you can enjoy the heart-boosting benefits of oleic acid while keeping your meals flavorful.

2. Supports gut health

Algae cooking oil, rich in omega-9 fatty acids like oleic acid, may support gut health. Oleic acid appears to have anti-inflammatory properties in the gut, though researchers don’t fully understand how omega-9 fatty acids affect gut bacteria to produce these effects .

This interaction between gut microbiota and omega-9 is a less-explored area, but incorporating algae cooking oil into everyday cooking — such as for sautéing vegetables or making salad dressings — can be an easy way to include these potentially beneficial fats in your diet.

Related: Best Cooking Oils for Gut Health

3. May contribute to lower inflammation

Our bodies do need some omega-6 fats, but having too much compared to omega-3 and omega-9 can lead to more inflammation. Many popular oils, like soybean and corn oil, are very high in omega-6 fats.

Algae cooking oil contains only a fraction of the omega-6 fats linked to inflammation . This makes it easier to maintain a healthier balance in your diet. For families, that could mean using algae cooking oil for everyday cooking — whether roasting potatoes or preparing a stir-fry — may support better long-term health compared to oils packed with omega-6.

Related: Anti-Inflammatory Cooking Oils

4. Highest smoke point, less risk of harmful compounds

Algae cooking oil has one of the highest smoke points at 535°F, which makes it highly stable during high-heat cooking. When oils are overheated past their smoke point, they can break down and release free radicals, acrolein, trans fats, and other potentially harmful compounds.

Algae cooking oil’s high oxidative stability — meaning it resists breaking down when exposed to heat, light, or air — makes it far less likely to form these substances. This helps keep your meals healthier, even at higher cooking temperatures.

Related: Cooking Oil Smoke Points

The Bottom Line

Algae cooking oil is a new, chef-grade option that brings together better nutrition and everyday practicality in the kitchen. With less saturated fat, plenty of heart-healthy oleic acid, fewer omega-6 fats, and a very high smoke point, it’s designed for both flavor and wellness.

If you’re looking for a way to make your meals healthier without sacrificing taste, consider trying algae cooking oil from Algae Cooking Club — a simple swap that makes a big difference.

4 References

By Tiffany Joy Yamut, BSN, RN
Health & Nutrition Writer

Tiffany Joy Yamut is a registered nurse with a focus on health and wellness. With over 10 years of writing experience, she combines her expertise in diet and nutrition coaching to help others adopt healthier lifestyles through balanced eating habits. A foodie at heart, Tiffany believes that food is essential to feeling your best.