The Truth About Sunflower Oil: Myths, Benefits & a Festive Recipe

Seed oils have been getting a bad rap lately. Scroll through social media and you might think they’re the villain in every kitchen. But here’s the thing—not all seed oils are created equal. While there’s good reason to be cautious about heavily processed, chemical-laden oils, it’s time to set the record straight. Let’s talk about the real difference between industrial oils and the good stuff.

Sunflower oil, especially when cold-pressed and unrefined like Simply Sunflower Oil, offers numerous health benefits that are often overshadowed by generalizations. The Koelling family has been farming in Ord, Nebraska, for over 120 years, practicing regenerative agriculture long before it became a trend. Their commitment is to provide a pure, nutrient-rich oil that supports your health and culinary endeavors. 

Myth vs. Fact: Clearing Up the Confusion 

Myth 1: All seed oils are harmful and inflammatory.

Fact: Not all seed oils are created equal. Cold-pressed sunflower oil, like Simply Sunflower Oil, retains its natural antioxidants and nutrients. Studies have shown that high oleic sunflower oil can increase HDL (good) cholesterol and reduce inflammation (WebMD). Many concerns about seed oils are based on highly processed, refined oils that are stripped of nutrients and made with chemical solvents. However, Simply Sunflower Oil is cold-pressed, unrefined, and made without any chemicals or additives—preserving the natural antioxidants and nutrients found in sunflower seeds. In particular, Simply Sunflower Oil is rich in Vitamin E and made from high oleic sunflower seeds, which are known for their heart-healthy fats. According to WebMD and studies published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, high oleic sunflower oil may help raise HDL (good) cholesterol, support heart health, and even reduce markers of inflammation when used in place of saturated fats. So while it’s true that some industrial seed oils can be inflammatory, clean, cold-pressed options like Simply Sunflower Oil actually support better health—not harm it.

Myth 2: Seed oils are only suitable for processed foods.

Fact: Simply Sunflower Oil is all-natural, cold-pressed, nutrient-rich alternative to industrial seed oils—fit for healthy, everyday cooking.

This myth stems from the fact that many ultra-processed foods use heavily refined, industrial seed oils that are stripped of nutrients and loaded with additives. But that’s not the case with Simply Sunflower Oil—a pure, cold-pressed, and unrefined alternative that’s helping redefine clean cooking in American kitchens. Unlike industrial oils, Simply Sunflower Oil retains its natural antioxidants and vitamins, especially Vitamin E, and contains no chemicals, preservatives, or additives. With a high smoke point of around 450°F, it’s ideal for everything from sautéing farm-fresh veggies and roasting meats to baking wholesome treats, pan-frying with a crisp finish, and crafting clean, flavorful dressings and marinades. It’s also non-GMO project verified, Kosher Certified, made in the U.S.A., and processed in an independent facility ensuring no allergen cross-contamination and complete transparency. Not all oils are created equal. Simply Sunflower Oil is made for real kitchens, not factories.

Myth 3: All sunflower oils are the same.

Fact: The processing method significantly impacts the quality of sunflower oil. The processing method largely affects the quality, nutritional value, and safety of sunflower oil. Many conventional sunflower oils on the market are highly refined, often processed with chemical solvents, bleaches, and deodorizers that strip the oil of its natural antioxidants, vitamins, and flavor. In contrast, Simply Sunflower Oil is cold-pressed and unrefined, meaning we extract the oil naturally—without heat or chemicals—to preserve its nutrients, purity, and fresh, light taste. Because it’s never chemically altered or treated, Simply Sunflower Oil retains its naturally high levels of Vitamin E and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, making it a smarter and cleaner choice for everyday cooking. Plus, all of our oil is made start-to-finish on our fourth-generation family farm in Nebraska, ensuring full transparency, no cross-contamination, and the highest standards from seed to bottle. So no, not all sunflower oils are the same—and Simply Sunflower Oil stands apart as a truly wholesome, American-grown option you can trust.

 Simply Sunflower Oil Health Facts

·      All-Natural
Simply Sunflower Oil comes from fresh sunflowers grown on Nebraska farms. These high oleic sunflower seeds are cold pressed without the use of chemicals to offer all natural, unrefined, virgin oil. All-Natural and All-American!

·      Rich in Healthy Fats
Simply Sunflower Oil is a versatile, trans fat-free oil low in saturated fats. It is High Oleic! High Oleic Sunflower oil is more healthy than mid-oleic and linoleic sunflower oil. It contains higher Oleic fatty acids (monounsaturated fat - this is the good fat you need for energy) and less linoleum acids (polyunsaturated fats).

·      Diet & Allergen Friendly
Simply Sunflower Oil is produced in an independent facility that only processes all-natural sunflower oil. The Simply Sunflower production facility is free of soy, peanuts, tree nuts and all other top allergens. Simply Sunflower Oil is non-GMO, OK Kosher Pareve Certified, gluten-free, nut-free, vegan, and heart healthy. It is popular for Paleo, Vegan, Whole30 and several other healthy diets

·      Cold-Pressed & Nutrient-Dense
Our high oleic sunflower seeds are mechanically cold-pressed to preserve the natural antioxidants and nutrients - including 41% Vitamin E. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells, support immune function, and keep your skin glowing from the inside out.

·      Sustainably Grown
These sunflowers are grown using regenerative and eco-friendly farming practices. Their sunflowers are included in a crop rotation to enrich the soil we've been farming in Nebraska for over 120 years. The Koellings are so passionate about sharing their farm, that they invite the public to visit one day in August for their annual Field Day to see all the beautiful sunflowers in full bloom. They are incredibly transparent so everyone knows exactly where Simply Sunflower Oil is sourced. 

How to Choose the Best Cooking Oil

1.     Opt for Cold-Pressed and Unrefined: Ensures maximum nutrient retention.

2.     Check for Single-Ingredient Products: Avoid oils with additives and preservatives.

3.     Consider the Source: Choose oils produced through sustainable farming practices.

Simply Sunflower Oil meets all these criteria, offering a pure, farm-to-bottle product you can trust. You can purchase Simply Sunflower Oil right at our Buy Nebraska Store or online. 

Recipe: Simply Sunflower Chicken Fajitas

1 Ib. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast 
4 Multi-Colored Bell Peppers 
1 Red Onion 
4 Tbsp. Simply Sunflower Oil 
2 Tbsp. Fajita Seasoning (see below) 
¼ cup Water 

1.     Cut chicken breast into ½-inch strips.

2.     Mix ¼ cup water, 2 Tbsp. Simply Sunflower Oil, and Fajita Mix in large plastic bag. Add Chicken; toss to coat. Refrigerate 15 minutes, if possible.

3.     Cut peppers and onion into ½-inch strips.

4.     Pour 2 Tbsp Simply Sunflower Oil, peppers, onion, and meat with marinade into a large skillet.

5.     Cook over medium to high heat for 8-10 minutes or until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through, stirring frequently. 

Serving Suggestions Serve in warm tortillas with sour cream, black beans, and rice.

Fajita Seasoning: If you opt to make Homemade Fajita seasoning, mix 1 tbsp chili powder, 2 tsp paprika powder, 2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp chili flakes, ½ tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp ground black pepper, 1 pinch ground cinnamon, 1 pinch ground cloves, and 1 tbsp salt (optional). 

Remember: Not all seed oils are created equal.  

Simply Sunflower Oil stands out due to its cold-pressed, unrefined nature, rich nutrient profile, and sustainable production methods. Incorporating it into your diet can offer numerous health benefits without compromising on taste or quality. We'd love to hear from you: 

Have questions about sunflower oil? Tried the recipe? Share your experience! Have your own favorite way to use Simply Sunflower Oil? Let us know! Feel free to leave a comment below or reach out to us directly.