The Core of the Simple Mills Ingredient Philosophy
Simple Mills has built its brand around a steadfast commitment to clean and simple ingredients. Their motto, "Feel What Good Food Can Do," is a direct reflection of this mission, emphasizing that food should be delicious, wholesome, and made with recognizable, real-food ingredients. This is not a marketing gimmick but a guiding principle that influences every aspect of product development, right down to their choice of cooking oil. They avoid artificial additives, fillers, and ambiguous "natural flavors," opting instead for ingredient transparency. When you see sunflower oil on a Simple Mills ingredient list, it is a purposeful choice that adheres to these high standards.
The Critical Difference: High-Oleic vs. Conventional Sunflower Oil
To truly understand the "why," it is essential to distinguish between the two main types of sunflower oil. Conventional sunflower oil is high in polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid). While omega-6 is an essential fatty acid, an excess of it, a common issue in the standard Western diet, can be linked to inflammatory risks.
By contrast, Simple Mills uses high-oleic sunflower oil. This specific variety is bred to have a higher percentage of monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acids (oleic acid). This is the same type of heart-healthy fat found in olive oil and avocados. The strategic choice of high-oleic oil is a deliberate move toward a more balanced, anti-inflammatory fatty acid profile.
Clean Processing: The Expeller-Pressed Difference
Beyond the fatty acid composition, the method of oil extraction is crucial to Simple Mills' mission. Many conventional oils are extracted using chemical solvents, a process that can leave unwanted residues. Simple Mills chooses a cleaner, more natural method: expeller-pressing. This mechanical process uses only pressure to gently extract the oil from the seeds. This aligns with the company's dedication to minimizing processing and providing products free from synthetic chemicals.
Performance, Stability, and Flavor Benefits
For a food manufacturer, the oil's performance during cooking and its effect on the final product are paramount. High-oleic sunflower oil offers several practical advantages that contribute to the quality of Simple Mills' baked goods:
- Excellent Oxidative Stability: The oil is highly stable when exposed to heat and oxygen, which means it maintains its nutritional properties throughout the baking process. This prevents the degradation of healthy fats into potentially harmful compounds.
- High Smoke Point: With a high smoke point, high-oleic oil can withstand the temperatures required for baking without breaking down or smoking. This helps preserve the flavor and integrity of the final product.
- Neutral Flavor Profile: Unlike some oils with stronger, more distinct flavors (like olive or coconut oil), high-oleic sunflower oil is prized for its mild, neutral taste. This ensures the oil doesn't interfere with or overpower the intended flavor profile of the crackers, cookies, or other products, allowing the wholesome ingredients to shine.
Comparison Table: High-Oleic vs. Conventional Sunflower Oil
| Feature | High-Oleic Sunflower Oil (Used by Simple Mills) | Conventional Sunflower Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Fat Type | Monounsaturated Fat (Omega-9) | Polyunsaturated Fat (Omega-6) |
| Inflammatory Potential | Lower risk; anti-inflammatory properties | Higher risk when consumed in excess |
| Processing Method | Expeller-pressed (chemical-free) | Often solvent-extracted (chemical-based) |
| Heat Stability | Excellent; stable for high-heat baking | Lower stability; prone to oxidation under heat |
| Flavor Profile | Neutral and mild | Mild to neutral, but less stable under heat |
Conclusion
Simple Mills' choice to use high-oleic, expeller-pressed sunflower oil is far from accidental. It is a calculated and conscious decision that supports the company's core values of transparency, clean ingredients, and nutritious products. By opting for a healthier fatty acid profile, a cleaner processing method, and better performance under heat, Simple Mills ensures that their snacks taste great and meet their stringent quality standards. This is a perfect example of how a detailed understanding of ingredients can result in a more thoughtful and health-conscious final product. For more on their commitment to simple ingredients, visit their blog, Simple Mills.
The Simple Mills Ingredient Selection Process
For a detailed look into how Simple Mills chooses and vets its ingredients, read their blog post titled "A Simple Guide to Simple Shopping." This article reinforces their philosophy of using minimal, recognizable, and nutrient-dense fats while avoiding hydrogenated and artificial oils. It highlights that every component, from the almond flour to the specific oil, is selected with intentionality and purpose to create truly clean products.
