Benno Box, a healthy meal prep company in Liverpool, explains why they don’t use seed oils in their meals.
Benno Box, founded in 2020, has supplied over 1,700 customers with more than 100,000 healthy meals. They pride themselves on using only the best ingredients, establishing themselves as Merseyside’s premier meal prep supplier.
In the quest for a healthier lifestyle, many of us scrutinise the ingredients in our food, seeking to eliminate those that may compromise our well-being. Benno Box has made one significant decision: to avoid using seed oils in their cooking and meal-prepped food. Benno Box’s commitment to promoting better health and nutrition for their families, friends, and customers underpins this decision.
Benno Box Founder Andrew Kelly said:
“Seed oils, including canola, sunflower, soybean, corn, and grapeseed oils, are extracted from the seeds of plants. They are widely used in cooking, processed foods, and even skincare products due to their low cost and long shelf life. However, these oils undergo extensive processing and refining, which can strip them of nutrients and introduce harmful substances.”
Since embarking on his own health journey, Andrew has become Liverpool’s very own ‘ultra marathon man’, running an average of a half marathon every day for over four years and competing in gruelling races internationally. His obsession with a healthy diet has led to his running success, as well as his commitment to passing it on to customers.
Speaking further about seed oils, he said:
“Seed oils are rich in omega-6 fatty acids. While our bodies need a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, the typical modern diet, which includes a lot of seed oils, tends to have an overabundance of omega-6s. This imbalance can lead to chronic inflammation, which is a precursor to many diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.”
“During the high-heat processing of seed oils, they can become oxidised, forming harmful compounds like aldehydes. These compounds can cause oxidative stress in the body, damaging cells and contributing to ageing and various health issues. Small amounts of trans fats can form during the refining process too, and these are known to increase the risk of heart disease and other chronic health conditions.”
“Furthermore, to improve the flavour, stability, and appearance of seed oils, manufacturers often add artificial preservatives and chemicals. These additives can have various negative health effects and contribute to the overall toxicity of the oils.”
Benno Box offers a huge menu for custom orders or set meal plans, such as five meals per week, for as little as £39.99 delivered. Customer feedback has been profound, with countless reviews from people who have lost weight, overcome eating disorders, and lived healthier lives. Like Andrew, many sport enthusiasts and athletes have attributed the Benno Box diet to taking their fitness to the next level.
Andrew summarised:
“Every single ingredient we use is meticulously scrutinised. By eliminating seed oils and their high omega-6 content, you can help restore the balance of fatty acids in your diet, reducing inflammation and the risk of chronic diseases. Meanwhile, opting for healthier fats like olive oil and avocado oil supports cardiovascular health by improving cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure.”
“Natural fats like butter and ghee are easier on the digestive system compared to heavily processed seed oils, which can sometimes cause digestive discomfort. Healthy fats are essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), ensuring your body gets the most out of the nutrients in your food.”
The choice to avoid seed oils is a crucial step towards a healthier lifestyle. By opting for natural, minimally processed fats, we can support our overall health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and enjoy better-tasting, more nutritious meals. Making informed decisions about the oils we use is an essential part of our journey towards optimal health.
Benno Box are based in Liverpool and provide a wide range of healthy, nutritious meal prep meals and snacks, with a custom menu of over 100 meals or a set menu and weekly or monthly meal plan. They offer delivery throughout Merseyside and have supplied over 1,700 customers with over 100,000 healthy meals since forming in 2020.
For more information about Benno Box you can visit their website.
