Grape seed oil in clear glass vial
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Fat composition | |
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Saturated fats | |
Total saturated |
Palmitic: 7% Stearic: 4% |
Unsaturated fats | |
Total unsaturated | 86% |
Monounsaturated | 16.1% |
Palmitoleic acid | <1% |
Oleic acid | 15.8% |
Polyunsaturated | 69.9% |
Omega-3 fatty acids | α-Linolenic: 0.1% |
Omega-6 fatty acids | Linoleic: 69.6% |
Properties | |
Food energy per 100 g (3.5 oz) | 3,700 kJ (880 kcal) |
Smoke point | 216 °C (421 °F) |
Iodine value | 124-143 |
Saponification value | 126 (NaOH) 180-196 (KOH) |
Unsaponifiable | 0.3% - 1.6% |
Peroxide value | 2.92 mequiv/kg |
Grape seed oil (also called grapeseed oil or grape oil) is pressed from the seeds of grapes, and is thus an abundant by-product of winemaking.
Grape seed oil has a moderately high smoke point of approximately 216 °C (421 °F). Due to its clean, light taste, and high polyunsaturated fat content, it may be used as an ingredient in salad dressings and mayonnaise and as a base for oil infusions of garlic, rosemary, or other herbs or spices. It is widely used in baked goods, pancakes, and waffles. It is sprayed on raisins to help them retain their flavor.
The metabolic energy density of grape seed oil is typical of vegetable oils: approximately 3,700 kJ (880 kcal) per 100 g, or 500 kJ (120 kcal) per 15 ml tablespoon.
Grape seed oil is a preferred cosmetic ingredient for controlling moisture of the skin. Light and thin, grape seed oil leaves a glossy film over skin when used as a carrier oil for essential oils in aromatherapy. It contains more linoleic acid than many other carrier oils.
Grape seed oil is also used as a lubricant for shaving and as a growth and strengthening treatment for hair.
Grape seed oil may provide some health benefits. A 1993 study supports the claim that grape seed oil increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C or "good cholesterol") levels and reduces LDL levels.