We've heard of lab-grown meat, leather, casein protein, milk, and more. But, did you know we can produce oil this way, too? Through a simple fermentation process, Zero Acre Farms uses oil cultures to create a new cooking oil that is better for your health and the environment than traditional vegetable oils! Keep reading to find out why.

The Environmental Impact of Vegetable Oils

The environmental footprint of olive oil, canola oil, palm oil, and soybean oil is far from insignificant, and these refined oils are now in almost all the foods we eat. They are major contributors to deforestation and global GHG emissions, and palm oil production specifically has led to widespread habitat loss and the endangerment of various wild animal species. So, as vegans, we should be concerned about our use of vegetable oils and how it may impact our animal friends!

Do Vegetable Oils Negatively Affect Our Health?

Zero Acre Farms believes the high, disproportionate levels of polyunsaturated fats (mainly omega-6) could be causing an inflammatory response in our bodies. That's why their cultured oil is made up of over 90% monounsaturated fats; specifically, oleic acid. Based on their research, this new lab-grown oil's fatty acid profile is designed to protect your heart health and provide natural antioxidants without compromising on cooking quality or delicious taste.

How Does Zero Acre Farms' Cultured Oil Compare to Common Vegetable Oils?

While avocado oil and olive oil are high in monounsaturated fats, these vegetable oils may still be composed of around 10-30% omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Zero Acre Farms' cultured oil is made up of less than 3% omega-6 linoleic acid. It also has an ultra-high smoke point at 485ºF, which means it won't break down into toxic compounds when cooked at high temperatures.

To top things off, this oil is vegan, allergen-free, pesticide-free, and non-GMO. It also trumps the competition when it comes down to its environmental footprint. According to their page, Zero Acre Farms' cultured oil requires 85% less land than canola oil, 86% fewer GHG emissions than soybean oil, and 99% less water than olive oil for its production. And finally, it comes in an aluminum bottle, meaning its packaging is infinitely recyclable!

But, how does it perform? Is it as easy to use as common plant-based cooking oils? We'd have to say it's easier! At such a high smoke point, you can roast, sauté, deep fry, and stir fry with this versatile product. It also stays liquid in the fridge and boasts a neutral taste, making it excellent for dressings, sauces, and marinades. Plus, its added tocopherols (vitamin E) help to keep it fresh for longer.

Can Cultured Oils Replace Vegetable Oil?

This project has received plenty of support from big investors like Richard Branson and even Robert Downey Jr., through his investment group Footprint Coalition Ventures! The brand recently raised $37 million for this planet-friendly initiative, and has already gathered a team of almost forty employees after just two years in business.

Although this brand is enjoying great success, they aren't the first to launch cultured oil in the US. TerraVia's Thrive culinary algae oil was produced via fermentation, and sadly discontinued in 2020. So, while the world may not have been prepared for the introduction of a new cooking oil then, Zero Acre Farms is confident that if the benefits are communicated clearly, cultured oil will attract a big market over the years to come.

Would you try cultured oil? Share your thoughts on this innovative ingredient below, and subscribe to our newsletter for more of the latest vegan news, tips, and recommendations!

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