Coconut oil has become an increasingly popular oil to cook and bake with over the last several years. Its high smoke point and health benefits make it appealing for many home cooks. But one question that often comes up is whether you need to store coconut oil in the refrigerator or not. Here’s a look at what experts say about storing coconut oil.
The Benefits of Coconut Oil
First, let’s review some of the main benefits of using coconut oil:
- High smoke point – Coconut oil has a very high smoke point of 350°F, which makes it excellent for sautéing and stir-frying.
- Neutral flavor – When used in cooking and baking, coconut oil imparts very little flavor, allowing the flavors of other ingredients to shine.
- Health benefits – Coconut oil contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may promote weight loss, heart health, and brain function.
- Versatility – In addition to cooking, coconut oil can be used for skin and hair care. It’s also popular in smoothies and coffee drinks.
- Long shelf life – When stored properly, coconut oil has a long shelf life of 2-5 years due to its naturally high saturated fat content.
With all of these advantages, it’s no wonder that coconut oil has become so popular. Coconut oil is often praised by proponents of the low-carb, high-fat ketogenic diet as well. But the question remains – does it need to be refrigerated or not?
Does Coconut Oil Need Refrigeration?
In its solid form, coconut oil has a melting point of about 76°F. So in warmer room temperatures, coconut oil is liquid, while in cooler temperatures it becomes solid and white. Many people wonder if keeping coconut oil in the fridge can help extend its shelf life.
According to research, there is no need to keep coconut oil refrigerated for storage. In fact, the structure of coconut oil makes it very heat stable with a long shelf life at room temperature. Here’s an overview of how coconut oil holds up:
- Shelf life – Properly stored in an airtight container, coconut oil will keep for 2-5 years at room temperature. Refrigeration is not needed to extend its shelf life.
- Oxidation – Coconut oil is over 90% saturated fat, which makes it very resistant to oxidation and rancidity.
- Mold growth – The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil prevent mold or bacteria from growing on it.
- Smoke point – Refrigerating coconut oil can actually lower its smoke point slightly.
Research has confirmed that coconut oil maintains its chemical structure integrity whether stored at room temperature or in the fridge. So for storage purposes, there is no need to keep coconut oil refrigerated.
When Should Coconut Oil Be Refrigerated?
While refrigeration isn’t needed for storage purposes, some sources recommend keeping coconut oil in the fridge for consistency purposes. Here are some cases when refrigeration may be preferred:
- Warm climates – In very hot or humid environments, the solid coconut oil may start melting. Keeping it refrigerated will help it stay solid and spreadable.
- Consistent texture – If you use coconut oil in baking or cooking and want to maintain an even solid texture, the fridge ensures it won’t melt.
- Aroma – Refrigeration can help retain the desired coconut aroma longer before use.
So while not mandatory, refrigeration can help coconut oil keep its preferred solid state in hot weather. It also ensures solid coconut oil whenever you need it for recipes. If you live in a cool climate, keeping it at room temperature may be fine.
How to Store Coconut Oil Properly
To get the most shelf life out of coconut oil, proper storage methods should be followed whether you refrigerate it or not. Here are some tips:
- Avoid moisture – Coconut oil should not be stored anywhere wet or humid, which can cause mold growth.
- Airtight container – Keep coconut oil tightly sealed in a non-reactive jar or stainless steel container.
- Cool, dark place – Store coconut oil away from light and heat sources like the stove, dishwasher, etc.
- No plastic – Don’t store coconut oil in plastic containers which can leach chemicals.
- Use clean utensils -Always use clean and dry utensils when scooping coconut oil to prevent contamination.
Be sure to follow the “best by” date printed on the coconut oil jar. Unopened, it should last 2-5 years stored properly at room temperature. Once opened, coconut oil may last 6-12 months if stored properly. Refrigeration can extend this shelf life further to 2+ years.
Signs Your Coconut Oil Has Gone Bad
Coconut oil has a long shelf life, but it can eventually spoil. Here are some signs your coconut oil has gone bad and should be discarded:
- Change in color – Fresh coconut oil is pure white. Yellowing or gray color changes indicate spoilage.
- Off smell – Coconut oil should smell like fresh coconut. Rancid odors mean the oil is spoiled.
- Change in texture – Separating liquid or grainy texture signals degradation.
- Mold – Visible mold growth due to moisture contamination.
- Taste – Spoiled coconut oil will not taste sweet. Instead it will taste unpleasant or bitter.
As long as it is stored properly and the quality looks good, coconut oil can be used for several years before it goes bad. Be sure to inspect it and do a sniff test before use.
How to Use Refrigerated Coconut Oil
If you do opt to keep your coconut oil refrigerated, here are some tips for usage:
- Measure carefully – The coconut oil will be solid and opaque, so estimate how much you need.
- Soften before use – Microwave it in 5-10 second intervals or place the jar in warm water to melt.
- Avoid temperature shock – Don’t go straight from the fridge to high heat cooking.
- Stir well – Stir the melted coconut oil to reincorporate any separated liquid.
- Clean utensils – Dry utensils before each use to prevent premature spoilage.
Refrigerated coconut oil may be a bit harder to scoop and measure compared to oil left at room temperature. But with a few tips, refrigerated coconut oil can be incorporated into all your favorite recipes.
Using Coconut Oil in Cooking
Coconut oil is very versatile in cooking and works well for many methods of food preparation. Here are some of the best uses for coconut oil:
- Baking – Use coconut oil 1:1 in place of other baking fats like butter or oil in cookies, cakes, muffins, etc.
- Sautéing – The high smoke point makes coconut oil excellent for sautéing veggies, meats, eggs, etc.
- Stir-frying – Coconut oil is ideal for quick, high-heat stir-frying in a wok.
- Roasting – Toss chopped veggies in coconut oil before roasting for added flavor.
- Popcorn – Coconut oil adds a light sweetness when used to pop popcorn on the stovetop.
When cooking with coconut oil, start with a small amount and add more as needed. The sweet, nutty coconut flavor will come through more at higher temps.
Other Ways to Use Coconut Oil
In addition to cooking, coconut oil can be used for many other purposes as well. Here are some other popular uses for this versatile oil:
- Skin moisturizer – The fatty acids hydrate and nourish dry skin when used as a lotion.
- Hair mask – Coconut oil penetrates hair to condition, strengthen, and add shine.
- Coffee creamer – Adding a spoonful of coconut oil to coffee gives a creamy, energizing boost.
- Oil pulling – Swishing coconut oil in the mouth helps clean teeth and improve oral health.
- Personal lubricant – Coconut oil is natural and safe to use as a personal lubricant.
Coconut oil is highly moisturizing, which makes it useful for skin and hair applications. It also has antimicrobial properties to help fight acne, dandruff, and even freshen breath.
Nutrition Facts of Coconut Oil
Here is an overview of the key nutrition facts in one tablespoon (14g) of coconut oil:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 117 |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Vitamin E | 0.1mg |
As you can see, coconut oil is pure fat, mostly saturated. It provides no protein, carbs, fiber, vitamins or minerals. However, coconut oil does contain a small amount of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant.
Breakdown of Fatty Acids
Here is the fatty acid breakdown of coconut oil:
- Lauric acid – 45-53%
- Myristic acid – 16-21%
- Palmitic acid – 8-10%
- Caprylic acid – 5-10%
- Capric acid – 5-10%
- Oleic acid – 1-2%
The medium chain fatty acids like lauric, caprylic and capric acid in coconut oil provide the most health benefits. Lauric acid in particular has antimicrobial properties.
Is Coconut Oil Healthy?
Coconut oil contains a unique composition of saturated fats and medium chain triglycerides that may offer various health benefits. Here are some of the evidence-based health benefits associated with coconut oil:
- Weight loss – The MCTs in coconut oil boost metabolism and satiety which may aid weight loss.
- Heart health – Studies show coconut oil can improve cholesterol levels and lower heart disease risk.
- Brain function – MCTs from coconut oil provide an alternative brain fuel source to boost cognition.
- Antimicrobial effects – Lauric acid has antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Skin and hair health – Coconut oil keeps skin moisturized and strengthens the hair shaft.
However, despite these benefits, coconut oil is still high in saturated fat. The American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fats for heart health. Most nutrition experts consider coconut oil a healthy fat, but recommend consuming it in moderation.
Recommended Daily Intake
There is no official recommended daily intake for coconut oil set by major health authorities. However, most experts suggest limiting coconut oil to no more than 2 tablespoons (30ml) per day as part of a balanced diet.
Risks and Precautions
Coconut oil is generally well tolerated, but there are some precautions to be aware of:
- Allergy – Those with coconut or tree nut allergy should avoid coconut oil.
- Medical conditions – Check with your doctor if you have liver disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, etc.
- Weight control – Coconut oil is high in calories from saturated fat which may promote weight gain.
- Oil pulling – Do not swallow coconut oil after oil pulling, as it contains bacteria and toxins.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also talk to their doctor before regularly consuming coconut oil.
The Bottom Line
Coconut oil offers many beneficial uses with its unique fatty acid profile and long shelf life. While refrigeration is not mandatory for storage, some people prefer keeping coconut oil in the fridge so it stays solid and spreadable. Proper sealing and cool, dark storage is most important.
To maximize shelf life, keep coconut oil in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, whether in the pantry or fridge. Use clean, dry utensils to scoop solid coconut oil. Be sure to inspect coconut oil that is older than 2 years for any signs of spoilage before use. Then enjoy all the great benefits of this healthy fat in moderation.