Is Kokoso Coconut Oil Technically Edible?
Yes, Kokoso coconut oil is made from raw, virgin, organic coconut oil and is confirmed by the brand to be 100% edible. The manufacturing process uses fresh-pressed coconuts within hours of being opened, ensuring a high-quality, pure product. The coconut oil is not refined, bleached, or deodorised, meaning no harsh chemicals are used in its production. This purity means that in a technical sense, the oil is suitable for human consumption, much like other high-grade virgin coconut oils.
The Difference Between Food-Grade and Skincare-Focused Coconut Oil
Even though Kokoso oil is technically edible, it's crucial to understand why it is primarily sold and marketed for skincare. Not all edible oils are created equal, and their intended purpose heavily influences their production, texture, and cost. For example, some cosmetic-grade oils, especially fractionated varieties, are processed differently to be more liquid and less greasy, and are not intended for consumption. Kokoso's specific formulation is designed to be lightweight and absorb easily into a baby's delicate skin, a characteristic achieved through a special ultra-cold extraction process. This is not a priority for standard cooking oils, which are optimised for properties like a high smoke point or neutral flavour.
Factors differentiating Kokoso from culinary oil:
- Processing: Kokoso uses an ultra-cold extraction technique to create a lighter, thinner oil ideal for skincare. In contrast, some cooking oils might be refined to increase their smoke point.
- Cost: Due to its specialized, premium extraction process and focus on a niche market (organic baby care), Kokoso is typically more expensive than standard coconut oils found in the cooking aisle.
- Packaging and Handling: The oil is packaged in BPA-free containers suitable for cosmetic use, not specifically designed for food storage and handling regulations, though it is technically food-safe.
- Intended Use: The company sells it as a multi-purpose moisturiser, massage oil, and balm for babies and mothers, not as a foodstuff.
Should you use it for cooking?
While safe to eat, using Kokoso oil for cooking is not recommended for practical or financial reasons. For most culinary applications, an affordable, high-quality, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil from the grocery store is a far more cost-effective choice. Furthermore, the specialized properties that make Kokoso great for skin, such as its lightweight texture, do not provide any significant culinary advantage.
A Comparison of Kokoso and Standard Food-Grade Coconut Oil
| Feature | Kokoso Baby Organic Coconut Oil | Standard Organic Virgin Coconut Oil (Food-Grade) |
|---|---|---|
| Processing | Unique ultra-cold, fresh-pressed extraction for a lightweight finish. | Typically cold-pressed; methods vary by brand but focus on flavour and purity. |
| Primary Purpose | Head-to-toe baby skincare (moisturiser, massage oil, balm). | Culinary use (cooking, baking, spreading). |
| Texture | Lighter and less dense than other coconut oils for better skin absorption. | Varies, but often thicker and more solid at room temperature. |
| Scent | Mild, subtle, fresh coconut scent. | Can have a stronger, more distinct coconut aroma. |
| Cost | Significantly more expensive due to specialized extraction and niche marketing. | Generally more affordable and widely available. |
| Regulations | Adheres to organic and dermatological standards for baby care. | Adheres to food-grade and organic certification standards. |
Versatility and Safety in Other Uses
Given its purity and organic nature, Kokoso is used by many mothers for purposes beyond baby skincare. Its use as a soothing nipple balm during breastfeeding is explicitly mentioned on the Kokoso website, where it states it doesn't need to be washed off before feeding because it is so pure. It is also used as an after-sun treatment, massage oil, and moisturiser for pregnant bumps and adults with sensitive skin.
When considering any product for internal use, even a technically edible one, it's important to weigh its intended purpose, potential cost, and any specific formulation differences. While Kokoso is perfectly safe for incidental ingestion, such as from applying it to lips or nipples, it is not sold as a dietary supplement or cooking oil. For all culinary needs, a product specifically designed, regulated, and marketed for food preparation is the most sensible and economical option.
Conclusion
In summary, Kokoso coconut oil is undeniably safe to eat, as confirmed by the manufacturer. However, it is not a culinary product. The company dedicates its unique, ultra-cold extraction process to creating a premium, lightweight oil best suited for gentle and effective baby skincare. While the ingredients are food-grade, the product's function, marketing, and pricing reflect its cosmetic purpose. If you have a pot in the house for its intended use, there is no harm in accidentally consuming it, but for cooking, you should reach for a more appropriate food-grade coconut oil from the supermarket. For more information, you can visit the official Kokoso FAQ page on their website.
