Coconut oil is expelled or pressed from mature coconut meat. Look for virgin coconut oil that is cold pressed, versus hydrogenated (avoid all hydrogenated oils, when possible). In the T+T kitchen, favorite uses are as a cooking oil, in baking and as a skin moisturizer.

SATURATED FATS:

Coconut oil is one of the only plant based sources of saturated fat. Comprised of roughly 65% medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), these type of saturated fats can be more easily digested and absorbed by the digestive system. Coconut oil may help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and increase HDL (or "good") cholesterol levels.

ANTIOXIDANTS:

With significant levels of Vitamins E and C, coconut oil has positive antioxidant activity. It has a protective effect on other healthy fats and tissues of our bodies. This is a reason why it is effective as a skin moisturizer and in beauty products.

SUGGESTED USES:

As a cooking oil. Use in rotation with unsaturated fat sources, such as olive and grapeseed oils. Pairs well with sautés of onions, greens and sweet potatoes.
As a baking oil instead of vegetable oil. Compliments sweeter dishes, such as our Apple Coconut Crisp.
Very effective as a skin moisturizer and natural eye makeup remover. You can find it as an ingredient in our T+T Lip Balm!

CITRUS (Lemons, Limes, Oranges, etc.) - Store on counter at room temperature. Do not freeze.

PEARS - Store on counter until ripe and sweetened. Can ripen faster in brown bag. Refrigerate only if soft and about to spoil.

BERRIES - Typically picked and sold fully ripe; eat right away. Wash just before consuming. All berry types freeze well.

AVOCADOS - Store on counter until ripe, then in fridge. Can ripen faster in brown bag. Freeze after peeling and slicing.

CELERY - Store upright in an airtight container with a little water or in a sealed plastic bag in the crisper, up to one week. Do not freeze.

BROCCOLI - Store in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag in the crisper. If any buds become yellow, discard the tops, but you can peel and use the stems.

TOMATOES - Store on the counter at room temperature. Never chill tomatoes.

ONIONS - Store on counter at room temperature. Never chill raw onions.

LEAFY GREENS - Store in an airtight container or a sealed plastic bag in the crisper. Sometimes healthier leaves are at the center of a wilted head; peel away outer leaves. Do not freeze.

AUTUMN SQUASH (Butternut, Acorn, etc.) - Store on the counter at room temperature.