Yes, many restaurants reuse cooking oil multiple times before discarding it. This practice is known as "oil recycling" or "oil management." Reusing oil can help restaurants save costs and reduce waste. However, it's important to note that restaurants must follow proper guidelines and safety measures to ensure the oil is used safely and does not become rancid or contaminated.
The type of oil used most often in restaurants can vary depending on the type of cuisine and cooking methods used. Some common types of oils used for cooking in restaurants include:
Vegetable oil: This is a generic term for various blends of plant-based oils, such as soybean, canola, corn, or sunflower oil. Vegetable oils are versatile, have a neutral flavor, and can withstand high cooking temperatures, making them suitable for deep-frying and general cooking.
Canola oil: Canola oil is a popular choice due to its relatively high smoke point and mild flavor. It is often used for frying and sautéing.
Peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and imparts a nutty flavor, making it ideal for stir-frying and deep-frying in Asian cuisine.
Olive oil: While more commonly used in Mediterranean and European cuisines, olive oil is also found in some restaurants for sautéing and dressing dishes.
Sesame oil: Sesame oil is mainly used as a finishing oil or for adding flavor to dishes in Asian cuisines. It has a low smoke point, so it's not suitable for high-temperature cooking.
Coconut oil: In some restaurants, especially those serving South Asian or Southeast Asian cuisine, coconut oil may be used for cooking due to its unique flavor and suitability for specific dishes.
It's essential for restaurants to filter and maintain the cooking oil properly to prevent it from developing off-flavors or deteriorating. Regular filtering and monitoring of oil quality help ensure the food's taste remains consistent and the oil stays safe for consumption. When the oil reaches the end of its usable life, it is typically collected and recycled by specialized companies that handle used cooking oil. These companies can repurpose the used oil for various purposes, including biofuels and animal feed.