Rethinking Seed Oils: The Organic High Oleic Opportunity
From mainstream media to health and wellness influencers, conventional seed oils like canola, soybean and linoleic sunflower oil are being scrutinized for their nutritional profiles and processing methods.
Because of this, today’s health-conscious consumers are evaluating ingredient lists more than ever before. They are prioritizing transparency, avoiding unfamiliar additives, and increasingly opting for minimally processed food and beverage products.
Concerns over chemical refining, solvent extraction and overconsumption of unsaturated fats have sparked a demand for Certified Organic, Non-GMO and expeller-pressed oils.
In response, food and beverage manufacturers are under pressure to deliver products that offer both high performance and a clean label.
Organic vs. Conventional
Most conventional seed oils are highly processed and used in ultra-processed foods, such as shelf-stable snacks and fast food. These oils are also largely produced from plants grown with synthetic pesticides & herbicides.
Conventional sunflower oil, also known as traditional linoleic sunflower oil, contains a high content of omega-6 fatty acids. While scientific consensus still recognizes unsaturated fats for their health benefits, some experts argue they should be consumed in limited amounts.
Because of this, consumers and brands alike are increasingly seeking oil alternatives that are cleaner and more traceable.
Let’s take a closer look at the fatty acid breakdown of both conventional linoleic sunflower oil and organic high oleic sunflower oil, and compare the two:
Organic High Oleic Sunflower Oil: A Step Above the Rest
This strategic, evidence-backed solution combines the functional benefits that formulators need with the clean label attributes consumers demand.
High oleic sunflower oil is cold-pressed from sunflower varieties that are bred to contain a high percentage of oleic acid (omega-9). In order for sunflower oil to be labeled ‘high oleic’ it must contain a minimum content of 80% oleic acid. Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fat known for its heart health benefits and oxidative stability.
Compared to traditional linoleic sunflower oil, Certified Organic High Oleic Sunflower Oil offers:
A Superior Fatty Acid Profile
- Minimum 80% oleic acid content
- Maximum 3–4% linoleic acid content (omega-6), reducing risk of oxidation
- Naturally low in saturated fat and free from trans-fat
Functional Benefits Without Additives
- Neutral odor & flavor that won’t overpower formulations
- Excellent thermal and oxidative stability
- High oleic acid content: contributes to stability and extended shelf-life
- High heat tolerance: ideal for deep frying & cooking applications
- No hydrogenation or synthetic preservatives needed
Clean Label Credibility
- Certified USDA/NOP Organic
- Non-GMO Project Verified
- Expeller-pressed: produced without hexane or chemical solvents
High Oleic, High Opportunity
While recent scrutiny of seed oils has pushed many manufacturers to explore reformulation, it has also presented an opportunity to educate consumers.
Is organic high oleic sunflower oil technically a seed oil? Absolutely. But its nutritional profile, product-friendly processing method, and Organic certification set it apart from highly refined and solvent-extracted seed oils.
By choosing a Certified Organic, Non-GMO, high oleic sunflower oil, brands can confidently market the inclusion as clean label.
Take it from North American plant-based dip and snack brand, Fabalish, who proudly displays their seed oil philosophy online. The company produces sustainable, small batch, allergen-friendly food products that are “proudly perishable” and made without any artificial preservatives. Fabalish relies on organic high oleic sunflower oil for their formulations.
Organic HOSO: The Superior Seed Oil
Organic High Oleic Sunflower Oil serves as a clean, functional, traceable alternative to conventional seed oils. With a healthier fat profile, superior stability and product-friendly certifications, O-HOSO is the smart choice for food & beverage manufacturers seeking to future-proof their formulations.
While other plant based oils, like olive oil, offer comparable high heat stability and heart-health benefits, the neutrality of organic high oleic sunflower oil is what makes it so versatile across food & beverage formulations.
Partner with Austrade Inc. for Your Next Innovation
Austrade Inc. delivers clean, traceable (from seed to supply) Organic High Oleic Sunflower Oil produced from 100% organic sunflower seeds. With dependable sourcing from seed to supply, we help formulators and brands meet clean label expectations without compromising on functionality.
Explore our full range of Certified Organic and Non-GMO ingredients today!
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