Is Desi Ghee Really The Purest Edible Item In The World? – News18

Last Updated:January 07, 2025, 10:36 IST

Desi ghee, made the Indian way, has been recognised by experts worldwide as the purest food item. Experts recommend consuming 1–2 teaspoons (15–30 ml) of ghee daily

Nowadays, finding the purest form of any food item is almost impossible. Even when its essence is extracted, not all properties are retained. However, there is one substance in India that exists in its purest form when prepared traditionally at home, ghee.

Desi ghee, made the Indian way, has been recognised by experts worldwide, including the BBC, as the purest food item. Ghee is also considered sacred in Indian scriptures, often used in religious rituals to elevate prayers to the heavens. But is ghee truly as pure as it is claimed to be? Dr Mukta Vashisht, former clinical dietician at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, explains.

Dr Vashisht explained that, scientifically, ghee is pure when churned at home and prepared on a low flame without any adulteration. Proper hygiene during its preparation is equally essential. Pure desi ghee is a saturated fat containing butyric and oleic acids, which, when consumed in moderation, offer significant health benefits. However, no more than 7% of total daily calorie intake should come from such fats, as ghee is calorie-dense and should be consumed in limited amounts.

Health Benefits of Ghee

Ghee contains medium-chain fatty acids, which dissolve quickly in the stomach, making digestion easier and preventing fat storage in the body. This quality makes it suitable even for overweight individuals. Additionally, ghee is rich in fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K, which are crucial for immunity and overall health. It aids in the absorption of these vitamins, boosts immunity, and contains antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which protect against chronic diseases. Proper consumption of ghee can enhance brain function, improve skin glow, and strengthen bones.

Importance of Proper Consumption

Improper use of ghee can be harmful. According to clinical nutritionist Dr Priyanka Rohatgi, ghee contains short- and medium-chain fatty acids, which can oxidise when overheated, producing free radicals. These free radicals may lead to issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Therefore, ghee should only be heated lightly on a low flame to retain its benefits.

Recommended Daily Intake

Dr Rohatgi recommends consuming 1–2 teaspoons (15–30 ml) of ghee daily. This quantity is considered safe and beneficial. Overconsumption, however, may lead to adverse effects.