Concerns Over Seed Oils

The discussion begins with the rising controversy surrounding seed oils, which some claim are harmful to health, akin to debates about vaccines and fluoride. Mark Bittman points out that extraction methods for oils such as canola and corn often involve harmful chemicals, whereas cold-pressed oils, extracted mechanically without heat or chemicals, are preferable. Despite the claims that seed oils may be toxic, Bittman argues that this view might stem from misunderstanding, noting that seed oils are typically found in high concentrations in ultra-processed foods that raise health concerns. Thus, while there may need to be scrutiny surrounding food processing and ingredient sourcing, the idea that seed oils themselves are categorically harmful lacks concrete evidence in Bittman's perspective.