Guide to High Smoke Point Oils
Not all oils are created equally! Find out the key differences between vegetable oils and their smoke points in our guide to high smoke point oils.
Learn more & discover the right oil for you ⬇
But First…
What is a “smoke point”?
Before exploring specific temperatures and types of oils, you may be wondering what a smoke point even is.
A smoke point is the temperature at which an oil begins to visibly smoke. The reason it’s so important in cooking is not just for fire safety or flavour reasons- it also has an impact on health.
Once an oil reaches its smoke point, it starts to decompose and release harmful compounds.
What oils have a high smoke point?
Canola Oil
Smoke point: 400-475°F
Canola oil is well-known for its high smoke point and easy application to high-heat cooking, especially paired with its neutral flavour & affordable price.
Refined versions of canola oil are on the higher end of this range, and unrefined canola oil slightly lower.
Sunflower Oil
Smoke point: 440-450°F
With a similar smoke point to canola oil, sunflower oil is another great choice for high-heat cooking.
It’s important to keep in mind that unrefined or cold-pressed versions of sunflower oil have generally lower smoke points, around 225°F.
Soybean Oil
Smoke point: 450°F
Soybean oil comes in at a similar smoke point, and unrefined soybean oil with a slightly lower smoke point of around 320°F.
Hydrogenated soybean oils typically have higher smoke points compared to non-hydrogenated versions.
Bulk High Smoke Point Oils
A Deep-Dive: Cooking Oil Smoke Points
Although canola, soybean, and sunflower oil are some of the top choices for high-heat cooking, there are actually a wide variety of oils with high smoke points.
High Smoke Point Oils: FAQ
Does avocado oil have a high smoke point?
Yes, avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it an excellent choice for high-heat cooking methods. Refined avocado oil has a smoke point of approximately 480-520°F (248-271°C), while unrefined or extra-virgin avocado oil has a lower smoke point, around 375°F (190°C).
Does olive oil have a high smoke point?
Olive oil’s smoke point varies depending on its refinement level. Extra-virgin olive oil has a relatively low smoke point, around 375°F (190°C), making it better suited for sautéing or low-heat cooking. In contrast, refined olive oil has a higher smoke point, with an upper limit of around 465°F (240°C).
Does coconut oil have a high smoke point?
Coconut oil’s smoke point depends on its type. Refined coconut oil has a moderately high smoke point of around 400°F (204°C), suitable for baking, frying, and sautéing. Unrefined or virgin coconut oil, however, has a lower smoke point, approximately 350°F (177°C), and is better for low-heat cooking or flavouring dishes.
Does vegetable oil have a high smoke point?
Vegetable oil, a blend of various plant-based oils, typically has a high smoke point of around 400-450°F (204-232°C). However, the exact smoke point depends on the type of blend.
Does canola oil have a high smoke point?
Canola oil has a high smoke point, generally around 400°F (204°C) for unrefined and up to 450°F (232°C) for refined versions. This makes it suitable for high-heat cooking methods such as frying and grilling.
Does sesame oil have a high smoke point?
The smoke point of sesame oil varies by type. Refined sesame oil has a high smoke point of around 410°F (210°C), making it suitable for frying and high-heat cooking. Toasted sesame oil, however, has a much lower smoke point, approximately 350°F (177°C), and is best used as a finishing oil or for low-heat applications.