Ulli’s Oil Mill specializes in producing artisanal, cold-pressed organic oils that preserve the natural benefits of their raw ingredients. Their product line includes Austrian-style Styrian pumpkin seed oil, stamp-pressed hemp oil, organic camelina oil, and cold-pressed rapeseed oil. These oils are unrefined, unfiltered, and non-deodorized, ensuring maximum nutrient retention and flavor.
The company takes pride in its small-batch production methods, using a hydraulic stamp press to extract oils at body temperature. This technique differs from expeller pressing, which generates higher temperatures due to friction. Ulli’s approach allows for the preservation of delicate flavors and nutritional compounds that might otherwise be compromised by heat.
Incorporating Ulli’s cold-pressed oils into one’s diet can offer various health benefits. For instance, their raw pumpkin seed oil supports heart health and provides a good source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians. By focusing on quality and traditional processing methods, Ulli’s Oil Mill aims to create a connection between local farms and markets, fostering an oil-seed culture.
Ulli’s Oil Mill Origins
Ulli’s Oil Mill was founded by Ulrike Sitter, an Austrian immigrant who brought traditional cold-pressing techniques to America. The company’s philosophy centers on producing high-quality, sustainable oils using organic ingredients and small-batch methods.
The Founder: Ulrike Sitter
Ulrike Sitter, known as Ulli, came to America in 2011 from Austria. She quickly realized she missed the rich Austrian tradition of local, cold-pressed oils she grew up with. This longing inspired her to establish Ulli’s Oil Mill, bringing her homeland’s oil-making practices to her new country.
Ulli’s background and expertise in Austrian oil production methods became the foundation for her business. She focused on creating oils that maintained the natural benefits and flavors of the seeds they came from.
Her commitment to quality and tradition has made Ulli’s Oil Mill a respected name in artisanal oil production. The company’s products reflect Ulli’s dedication to preserving the authentic taste and nutritional value of cold-pressed oils.
Our Philosophy
Ulli’s Oil Mill operates on a philosophy of sustainability, quality, and tradition. The company uses only fresh, organic ingredients in its production process. This commitment ensures that their oils retain maximum nutritional benefits and flavor.
The mill employs small-batch production methods, allowing for careful control over quality at every stage. This approach also results in zero waste, aligning with the company’s environmental values.
Cold-pressing is at the heart of Ulli’s Oil Mill’s technique. This method preserves the natural benefits of the seeds, resulting in oils that are both flavorful and nutritious. The company’s dedication to traditional practices sets it apart in the modern oil market.
Understanding Cold Pressed Oils
Cold-pressed oils retain more nutrients and flavor compared to refined oils. The extraction method affects oil quality, nutritional value, and environmental impact.
Cold-Pressed vs Expeller Pressing
Cold-pressed oils are extracted using minimal heat, typically below 120°F (49°C). This method preserves the oil’s natural flavor, aroma, and nutritional properties.
Expeller pressing, while often labeled as “cold-pressed,” generates more heat due to friction. Temperatures can exceed 120°F, potentially altering the oil’s characteristics.
Cold pressing is gentler on the seeds or nuts, resulting in a higher quality product. It’s ideal for delicate oils like extra virgin olive oil and unrefined nut oils.
Cold Pressing and Nutrition
Cold-pressed oils retain more of their natural nutrients compared to refined alternatives. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
These oils often contain higher levels of beneficial compounds like polyphenols and omega-3 fatty acids. For example, cold-pressed flaxseed oil is prized for its omega-3 content.
Cold-pressed oils may have a shorter shelf life due to the absence of preservatives. However, their nutritional benefits make them a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.
The Importance of Organic Oils
Organic cold-pressed oils offer additional benefits. They are produced from crops grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
This cultivation method results in oils free from chemical residues. Organic oils may contain higher levels of certain nutrients and antioxidants.
Choosing organic supports sustainable farming practices. It reduces environmental impact and promotes soil health.
Ulli’s Oil Mill specializes in organic, cold-pressed oils. Their products are made from locally sourced seeds, ensuring freshness and supporting regional farmers.
The Health Benefits of Cold Pressed Oils
Cold pressed oils offer significant nutritional advantages due to their careful production methods. These oils retain more of their natural compounds, providing enhanced health benefits compared to refined alternatives.
Nutrient-Rich Profiles
Cold pressed oils are packed with essential nutrients. They contain higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than their heat-processed counterparts. Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, is particularly abundant in cold pressed oils.
This vitamin helps protect cells from damage and supports immune function. Cold pressed oils also preserve plant compounds like polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These nutrients contribute to overall health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Balanced Omega Fats
Cold pressed oils offer a favorable balance of omega fatty acids. They typically contain higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. These oils also provide omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids in beneficial ratios.
The balanced fat profile of cold pressed oils can help reduce inflammation in the body. This may lead to improved cardiovascular health and better management of conditions like diabetes. Cold pressed oils from sources like olive, camelina, and pumpkin seeds are especially rich in these beneficial fats.
Ulli’s Oil Mill Product Range
Ulli’s Oil Mill offers a diverse selection of high-quality, cold-pressed organic oils. Their product line includes camelina, hemp seed, pumpkin seed, and rapeseed oils, each with unique flavors and nutritional profiles.
Camelina Oil: A Versatile Choice
Camelina oil is a standout product from Ulli’s Oil Mill. This ancient oilseed crop produces a versatile oil with a mild, nutty flavor. Camelina oil contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E.
It has a smoke point of 475°F (246°C), making it suitable for cooking at high temperatures. Camelina oil works well in salad dressings, marinades, and as a finishing oil for various dishes.
Ulli’s cold-pressing process preserves the oil’s natural nutrients and flavor profile.
Hemp Seed Oil: Plant-Based Nutrition
Hemp seed oil is another key offering from Ulli’s Oil Mill. This oil is rich in essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6. It has a nutty, slightly grassy taste that complements many dishes.
Hemp seed oil should not be heated, as it can become bitter. It’s best used in cold applications such as:
- Salad dressings
- Dips
- Smoothies
- Drizzled over cooked foods
The oil provides a good source of plant-based protein and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid with potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Pumpkin and Rapeseed Oils: Unique Flavors
Ulli’s Oil Mill produces distinctive pumpkin seed and rapeseed oils. Pumpkin seed oil has a rich, nutty flavor and deep green color. It’s often used as a finishing oil for soups, salads, and desserts.
Rapeseed oil, also known as canola oil, offers a mild taste and high smoke point. Ulli’s organic, cold-pressed version retains more nutrients than heavily processed varieties.
Key features of these oils include:
- Pumpkin seed oil: Rich in zinc and antioxidants
- Rapeseed oil: High in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E
Both oils are versatile cooking ingredients, suitable for various culinary applications.
Culinary Applications
Cold pressed oils from Ulli’s Oil Mill offer versatile culinary uses. These oils enhance dishes with their distinct flavors and nutritional benefits, making them valuable additions to any kitchen.
Cooking with Cold Pressed Oils
Cold pressed oils can be used for various cooking methods. Camelina oil, with its high smoke point, is excellent for sautéing and roasting. Pumpkin seed oil adds a nutty flavor to dressings and marinades. When cooking with cold pressed oils, it’s important to consider their unique flavor profiles and heat tolerance.
For stir-frying, a small amount of cold pressed oil can impart depth to vegetables and proteins. In baking, these oils can replace conventional fats, offering healthier alternatives in cakes and bread. Cold pressed oils also work well in no-cook recipes like pestos and dips.
Cold Pressed Oils as Finishing Oils
As finishing oils, cold pressed varieties truly shine. A drizzle of Ulli’s Styrian pumpkin seed oil can elevate soups, salads, and roasted vegetables. Its rich, nutty taste adds complexity to dishes without overpowering other flavors.
Cold pressed oils make excellent bases for vinaigrettes and dipping sauces. They can be brushed onto grilled meats or fish just before serving to enhance flavor and moisture. For a gourmet touch, try a few drops of cold pressed oil on creamy desserts or gelato.
Chefs often use these oils to create visually appealing plate presentations. The vibrant colors of some cold pressed oils, like the deep green of pumpkin seed oil, can add visual appeal to monochromatic dishes.
Sustainability and Production
Ulli’s Oil Mill prioritizes eco-friendly practices and traditional production methods. The company focuses on sustainable farming and employs stamp pressing techniques to craft high-quality cold-pressed oils.
Sustainable Farming Practices
Ulli’s Oil Mill sources organic ingredients from local farmers who utilize sustainable agricultural methods. These practices include crop rotation, natural pest control, and water conservation techniques. The company supports biodiversity by encouraging farmers to grow a variety of oil-producing crops.
Soil health is maintained through organic fertilization and minimal tilling. This approach helps preserve soil structure and reduces carbon emissions. Ulli’s also promotes the use of cover crops to prevent erosion and enhance soil fertility.
By partnering with local farmers, the company reduces transportation distances and supports the regional economy. This localized approach contributes to a smaller carbon footprint and ensures fresher ingredients for oil production.
Crafting Oils through Stamp Pressing
Ulli’s Oil Mill employs a traditional stamp pressing method to extract oils from seeds. This technique uses a hydraulic stamp press to apply pressure to the seeds at low temperatures, typically around body temperature.
The stamp pressing process preserves the natural nutrients and flavors of the seeds. It avoids the high temperatures associated with conventional expeller pressing, which can degrade oil quality.
Each batch of oil is carefully monitored to ensure consistent quality. The slow, low-temperature process yields oils with superior taste and nutritional profiles. Stamp pressing also allows for small-batch production, enabling Ulli’s to maintain strict quality control standards.
The production process generates minimal waste. Leftover seed cake is repurposed as animal feed or used to create plant-based protein powders, exemplifying Ulli’s commitment to sustainability and zero-waste practices.
Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplements derived from cold-pressed oils offer unique benefits for health-conscious consumers. These products harness the nutrient-dense properties of seeds and oils to create potent formulations.
Protein Powders with Hemp and Other Seeds
Protein powders incorporating hemp and other cold-pressed seed oils have gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts and those seeking plant-based nutrition. Hemp protein powder provides a complete amino acid profile and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Pumpkin seed protein offers a good source of zinc and iron. These powders can be easily mixed into smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods.
Blends combining multiple seed proteins often deliver a more balanced nutritional profile. Some products also include cold-pressed flaxseed oil for added omega-3 benefits. These supplements are particularly valuable for vegans and vegetarians looking to meet their protein needs.
Incorporating Cold Pressed Oils into Supplements
Cold-pressed oils are increasingly used in capsule and liquid supplements due to their concentrated nutritional content. Flaxseed oil capsules provide a convenient source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid. Hemp oil supplements offer a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Some manufacturers combine cold-pressed oils with other nutrients to create targeted formulations. For example, pumpkin seed oil may be paired with saw palmetto for prostate health support. Cold-pressed oils can also be added to protein shakes or taken directly as a liquid supplement.
Navigating Awards and Recognitions
Ulli’s Oil Mill has garnered prestigious accolades for their cold-pressed oils, solidifying their reputation in the industry. These recognitions highlight the quality and craftsmanship of their products.
Good Food Awards and Industry Accolades
Ulli’s Oil Mill achieved a significant milestone on January 11, 2019, when they were honored at the Good Food Awards ceremony in San Francisco. The event, held at the historic War Memorial & Performing Arts Center, recognized Ulrike Sitter’s commitment to producing exceptional cold-pressed oils. This award underscores Ulli’s dedication to using organic ingredients and sustainable practices in their oil production.
The Good Food Awards are highly respected in the culinary world, celebrating producers who create tasty, authentic, and responsibly made products. Winning this award has boosted Ulli’s Oil Mill’s credibility and visibility in the market.
Beyond the Good Food Awards, Ulli’s Oil Mill has earned additional industry recognitions for their premium, extra-virgin oils. These accolades reflect the company’s consistent quality and innovative approach to cold-pressed oil production.
Connecting with Ulli’s Oil Mill
Ulli’s Oil Mill offers multiple ways for customers to engage with the brand and learn about their cold-pressed oils. The company provides both digital and traditional communication channels to connect with their audience.
Interactive Platforms
Ulli’s Oil Mill maintains an active presence on social media platforms. Their Pinterest account, under the username UllisOil, showcases their products and shares content related to their Austrian-style cold-pressed oils. Customers can follow their page to stay updated on new products, recipes, and oil-related tips.
Facebook serves as another interactive platform where Ulli’s Oil Mill engages with their community. Through this channel, customers can access product information, company updates, and potentially participate in discussions or events related to cold-pressed oils.
Reach Out via Email and Phone
For more direct communication, Ulli’s Oil Mill provides traditional contact methods. Customers can reach out to the company via email for inquiries about their products, ordering information, or general questions about cold-pressed oils.
A phone number is available for those who prefer verbal communication. This option allows for immediate responses to urgent queries or detailed discussions about Ulli’s Oil Mill’s offerings. Both email and phone contacts provide personalized attention to customer needs and concerns.