TPM (Total Polar Materials) in cooking oil is considered bad for your health because it indicates that the oil has undergone significant degradation, which can lead to various health risks. Here are five reasons why it’s harmful for your health, followed by five tips to avoid it:
1. *Formation of Harmful Compounds:* As cooking oil degrades, it can produce harmful compounds like free radicals and trans fats, which are associated with cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, and cancer.
2. *Nutrient Loss:* Degraded oil can lose essential nutrients and antioxidants, reducing its nutritional value.
3. *Unpleasant Flavor and Odor:* Cooking with oil that has high TPM levels can result in food that tastes rancid and has an unpleasant odor, affecting the overall dining experience.
4. *Lower Smoke Point:* As TPM levels rise, the oil’s smoke point decreases, making it more likely to smoke and release potentially harmful fumes when used for frying.
5. *Digestive Discomfort:* Consuming food fried in degraded oil may cause digestive discomfort, as it can be harder for the body to digest.
*Tips to Avoid TPM in Cooking Oil:*
1. *Monitor Temperature:* Maintain the oil at the correct temperature for the type of cooking you’re doing. Use a thermometer to prevent overheating, which accelerates TPM formation.
2. *Regularly Filter Oil:* After each use, filter the oil to remove food particles and impurities. This helps extend the oil’s life and reduce TPM levels.
3. *Avoid Overuse:* Limit the number of times you reuse cooking oil, especially for deep frying. Discard oil when it shows signs of degradation, such as an off odor or unusual color.
4. *Use Quality Oil:* Begin with a high-quality cooking oil like sunflower oil, canola oil, rice bran and avocado oil .These oils have a high smoke point, and tend to break down less easily.
5. *Store Properly:* Store cooking oil in a cool, dark place away from heat and light. Seal the container tightly to prevent air from entering, which can promote oxidation and TPM formation.
By following these tips, you can help prolong the life of your cooking oil and reduce the health risks associated with high TPM levels.
