Understanding Parachute's Edible Grade Status
For decades, many consumers, especially in India, have used Parachute coconut oil primarily for hair care. This has led to a widespread misconception that the product is not safe for ingestion. However, the manufacturer, Marico, has consistently labeled the 100% pure product as 'edible grade'. This labeling is not just a marketing gimmick; it is a legally enforced classification that distinguishes it from cosmetic-only oils and has been upheld in court. The company has reportedly used this edible classification to benefit from lower tax rates compared to hair oils. Products like the standard blue bottle of Parachute oil undergo a rigorous multi-stage purification and quality testing process, including 27 quality tests, ensuring its safety for internal use.
The Difference Between Edible and Cosmetic Coconut Oil
It is crucial to note that not all Parachute branded products are meant for internal use. Parachute also sells a range of 'Advansed' products and other variants specifically formulated as hair oils, which may contain additional ingredients like mineral oil or fragrances that are not safe for consumption. Therefore, before putting any Parachute product in your mouth, you must check the label to confirm it is the 100% pure, edible-grade version. Edible coconut oil is made from food-grade copra and is pure coconut oil without any added chemicals or additives, making it safe for both cooking and internal use.
Using Parachute Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in the mouth to improve oral hygiene. Coconut oil is a popular choice for this practice due to its high concentration of lauric acid, a medium-chain triglyceride with known antimicrobial properties. When performed correctly, oil pulling with edible coconut oil, such as the pure Parachute product, can potentially offer several oral health benefits.
How to Perform Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
- Preparation: Take about one tablespoon of liquefied Parachute coconut oil. It may be solid at cooler temperatures, so you can warm the bottle in hot water to melt it.
- Swish: Put the oil in your mouth and swish it around gently for 15 to 20 minutes. You can push and pull the oil through your teeth. Avoid swallowing the oil, as it collects bacteria and toxins during the process.
- Spit: After swishing, spit the oil into a trash can, not down the drain, as it can solidify and clog pipes.
- Rinse and Brush: Rinse your mouth with warm water and then brush your teeth as you normally would.
Oral Health Benefits of Oil Pulling
- Reduces Harmful Bacteria: Studies have shown that oil pulling with coconut oil can significantly reduce the presence of harmful bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, which causes tooth decay.
- Fights Plaque and Gingivitis: The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil can help reduce plaque buildup and inflammation of the gums (gingivitis).
- Freshens Breath: By killing odor-causing bacteria, oil pulling can contribute to fresher breath.
Comparison Table: Parachute 100% Pure vs. Other Variants
| Feature | Parachute 100% Pure Coconut Oil | Parachute Advansed Hair Oil | Virgin Coconut Oil (e.g., Parachute Naturalz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edible Grade | Yes, licensed by FSSAI | No, formulated as a cosmetic | Yes, and typically organic |
| Composition | 100% pure coconut oil | Contains added ingredients (e.g., mineral oil, fragrances) | Cold-pressed, unrefined, with a stronger natural aroma |
| Processing | Refined and purified in a multi-stage process | Chemically processed for specific hair benefits | Cold-pressed to preserve maximum nutrients |
| Intended Use | Cooking, oil pulling, hair care | Hair care only | Cooking, oil pulling, enhanced skin/hair care |
| Best For | Multi-purpose use where purity is key | Targeted hair treatment | Health-conscious users seeking minimally processed oil |
Conclusion: Safe for Internal Use with Caveats
In conclusion, you can safely put Parachute coconut oil in your mouth, provided you are using the 100% pure, edible-grade version sold in the standard blue bottle. It is important to distinguish this from other specialized Parachute products that are not meant for internal use and may contain added chemicals. The edibility of the pure product makes it a suitable option for cooking and for oral health practices like oil pulling, which leverage its natural antimicrobial properties to reduce harmful bacteria and improve gum health. When oil pulling, remember to swish the oil for 15-20 minutes and spit it into the trash to avoid plumbing issues. As with any product, it is essential to read the label carefully to ensure you are using the correct variant for your intended purpose.
For further reading, see this study on oil pulling:
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Study
Final Recommendations
Always check the label to ensure it states "100% Pure Coconut Oil" or "Edible." This guarantees it meets food-grade standards and contains no harmful additives. Pure coconut oil is a versatile product, but using the correct type is paramount for safety and effectiveness. If you have any concerns or specific health conditions, it is always wise to consult a healthcare professional or dentist before starting a new routine like oil pulling.
