Mustard oil may not be as popular as other kinds of oil, but it’s being used all over the world. Although the method of usage differs in various countries. Some mustard oil users have reportedly complained of it foaming, even without heating or frying it.
But what causes mustard oil to foam? And, how can you prevent it?
The foam that builds upon the surface of mustard oil can be an indication of oil contamination or bad mustard oil management. It can also be a result of increased pressure during refilling or packaging. As mustard oil distillates, the by-product during its creation produces foam.
In this post, I’ll explain the various reasons why mustard oil foams. Including expert tips(from experience and in-depth research) on how to prevent mustard oil from foaming.
What Is Mustard Oil?
Mustard oil comprises different production processes, However, a true mustard oil undergoes fat extraction from the seeds of a mustard plant. For different cultures or countries, it’s uses and production method is different.
It originated from India, the fat extraction is through Brassica nigra (a black mustard seed). While in Russia and other Asian regions, the mustard seeds are brown. The fat is extracted from Brassica Juncea. Some countries produce mustard oil by simply infusing mustard seeds. But, the real mustard oil is the fat extracted from the seed.
The extraction process can be through various forms, the common one is through the following steps:
- Grinding mustard seeds
- Stirring it in water, a simple water mixture is perfect.
- Lastly, you extract the above combination through distillation, which results in incombustible oil.
Mustard oil is a red (brown like too) or amber-colored oil, which comes from a mustard seed. It possesses a strong whiff and serves as a flavored oil used to prepare meals in different parts of the world. While for others, it’s an external-use only essential oil helpful in relieving many ailments.
What Is Mustard Oil Used For?
Mustard oil is used for many purposes. Also, the usage varies by different countries. In some parts of Asia, it is used as a spice for local and Continental cuisine. In the United States, Canada, and Europe it is used as an external oil for the treatment of some illnesses.
Although the Food and Drug Administration in the US(including Canada and Europe) banned the intake of mustard oil(due to the erucic acid properties), other countries adopt it as an organic treatment for various ailments.
Below are 3 different uses of mustard oil:
- Acts as an Anti-inflammatory and Anti-bacterial Medication
In India, it is known for its therapeutic importance. According to most users, they notice a significant difference in cardiovascular diseases, colds, and cough when applied or taken with food. It is rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids which have many health benefits.
Additionally, the glucosinolate in it curbs the increase of microbes and other unwanted bacteria. Mustard oil is said to contain selenium, a rich mineral that lessens swelling and pain. It is applied to joint pain as it may contain a form of diclofenac (an inflammatory therapy).
- May Act as an Organic Stimulant
The scientific research regarding this mustard oil usage is limited. However, It has been shown to improve bile in the liver as it performs effective natural stimulation when taken. It also stimulates digestive juices and momentum by increasing appetite when taken.
When rubbed externally, in a circular motion, it enhances blood circulation. Also, it stimulates the sweat glands which helps to improve the circulatory system.
- Improves Heart Health
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition conducted research on this. Here is what they found out;
Mustard oil is a rich source of Monounsaturated fatty acids. These fatty acids help to reduce the level of unwanted cholesterol in human health.
The inclusion of mustard oil(compared to other kinds of oil)in your diet helps to improve heart health.
Why Does Mustard Oil Foam
As it is with other regular oil, mustard oil foams too. Even though it’s not a common problem, a few users have reportedly noticed mustard oil foaming.
Most times, the cause of mustard oil foaming is due to the extraction process. Some brands use the cold-press process, which involves manual extraction in a slow process. This process forms moisture which is later left in the oil.
Upon usage or heating, it begins to foam.
While the above process is good as it does not contain any chemicals, it allows moisture to develop in the oil with time.
Another reason why mustard oil foams are due to the chemical used during production. Some brands use solvent extraction to ensure all the oil is extracted from the seed. While this may look organic, the temperature used during the mechanical extraction(which is before the solvent process) may be too high.
Contamination and oil degradation also causes mustard oil to foam. Some contain impurities that are a result of bad extraction.
How To Stop Mustard Oil From Foaming
Below are a few ways to stop mustard oil from foaming:
Check For Impurities
Check if there are tiny particles inside or compare it with any other mustard oil you have and see if there is any difference.
Avoid Too Much Air On It
Excessive oxidation is a result of too much air in the oil. Stop dumping your mustard oil in an open-air space without paying attention to its condition. It breeds so many air bubbles.
Avoid Water Contamination
Keep your mustard oil away from water or where it can build moisture. A normal temperature is fine for storage.
Get A New One
If your mustard oil is foaming excessively, it may be time to get a new one. The only way to get it right is by doing a DIY extraction, as too much defoaming additive may be used for the ones bought in stores.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.