Thursday, January 7, 2010

Is Flax seed oil that is sold as a dry good (vs. a refrigerated good)as viable as the refridgerated kind?

I have seen Flax seed oil sold in the herbal supplement department of my local big-box retailer. It is shelf-stabilized and it's sell by date is marked a year into the future. I usually purchase Flax Seed oil from the refrigerated isle at Whole Foods, and it is only good for a couple weeks after purchase. Can the dry-goods version be as nutritionaly valuable as the refrigerated version? I suspect not, but would like to hear from someone in the know.Is Flax seed oil that is sold as a dry good (vs. a refrigerated good)as viable as the refridgerated kind?
Flax seed oil is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, and therefore is highly susceptible to oxidation. For that reason flax seed oil should be sealed, refridgerated, and kept in an opaque bottle to keep light out. Theoretically, if the container is unopened (as it would be in the store) it is likely safe from much oxidation, but the practice of many health food stores (like Whole Foods) is better. You could detect whether the ';dry-good version'; is any good by smelling it immediately after opening it. If it smells fresh, without a hint of fat rancidity, then it is probably OK.Is Flax seed oil that is sold as a dry good (vs. a refrigerated good)as viable as the refridgerated kind?
Yes, my doctor told me to buy ground flax seed and sprinkle it on my oatmeal, salads whatever??? It really helps with circulation and your heart health, there is no big taste change either.
I remember seeing a show on TV about Flax seed and for nutrition you have to keep it refrigerated. It breaks down quickly and only last about a week when ground.

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