Savupiste

Savupiste is a Finnish term that translates to "smoke point" in English. It refers to the temperature at which an oil or fat begins to produce visible wisps of smoke when heated. This smoke is a sign that the oil is breaking down and is no longer suitable for cooking at that temperature.

Different oils and fats have different smoke points, which are influenced by factors such as the type of fat, its refinement process, and any added ingredients. For instance, highly refined oils like canola oil or vegetable oil generally have higher smoke points than unrefined oils like extra virgin olive oil. Saturated fats tend to have higher smoke points than unsaturated fats.

Understanding the smoke point of an oil is crucial for safe and effective cooking. When an oil is heated beyond its smoke point, it not only produces an unpleasant smell and taste but also begins to degrade, releasing potentially harmful compounds. For high-heat cooking methods such as frying or searing, it is best to use oils with high smoke points. For lower-heat cooking or dressings, oils with lower smoke points can be used. Knowing the smoke point helps chefs and home cooks choose the right fat for the intended cooking method, ensuring better flavor and healthier results.