The Journey of Wood-Pressed Mustard Oil

Wood-pressed oil, known locally as kachi ghani, is extracted using a wooden churner (ghani) turned slowly by bullocks or a low-speed motor. Unlike modern expeller mills that generate high heat and often use chemical solvents to maximise yield, the wood press keeps temperatures low, preserving the oil's natural aroma, colour, and nutrients. The process yields less oil per kilogram of seed, which is why wood-pressed oil costs more than refined oil, but the trade-off is a purer, more flavourful product free from synthetic additives. Our partner presses source mustard seed directly from farmers in the Terai belt and press it fresh every week.