Cooking Oil Guidelines: After making pakodas, puris, or other fried items, oil remains in the pan. Many people reuse this oil. Let us tell you the harm this can cause.

Disadvantages of repeatedly heating oil

How Long Can You Reuse Cooking Oil? It often happens in homes that after making pakoras, puris or other fried items, oil is left over in the pan. Many people reuse this oil so that it does not have to be thrown away. But do you know that if this leftover oil is heated again and again or kept for a long time, it can become harmful for health. According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, cooking oil should not be reheated more than three times. On repeated heating, harmful elements called total polar compounds start forming in the oil. If their quantity exceeds 25 percent, then such oil is not considered safe for cooking.

What happens to oil when it is heated repeatedly?

When oil is repeatedly heated over high heat, it undergoes oxidation, producing harmful compounds like aldehydes, free radicals, and trans fats. These can damage body cells, and long-term consumption of such oil can increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, liver problems, and inflammation.

For how many days can the leftover oil be used?

If, for some reason, the oil must be reused, filter it thoroughly to remove any small food particles. Then, store the oil in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Experts recommend using such oil within 1 to 2 days and only once. The longer the oil is stored, the greater the risk of it spoiling.

When should oil be thrown away immediately?

If the oil develops a strange or rancid odor, foams, darkens, or appears cloudy and thick after reheating, it should not be used at all. These signs indicate that the oil has gone bad and can be harmful to health.

Keep these things in mind while reusing oil

If you're reusing oil, avoid reheating oils with a low smoke point, such as olive oil or coconut oil. Always filter the oil and check its odor and color before reusing it. If there's even the slightest suspicion that the oil has gone rancid, it's best to discard it.