<p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">In recent years, seed oils have become a hot topic in nutrition discussions. Often found in processed foods and cooking oils, they are frequently criticized for their potential health risks. But what exactly are seed oils, and should we be concerned about their consumption? Let’s dive deeper into what seed oils are, their history, and why they might be detrimental to our health.</span></p>
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<h2 data-mce-fragment="1"><b data-mce-fragment="1">What Are Seed Oils?</b></h2>
<p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Seed oils are derived from the seeds of various plants. Common types include sunflower, canola, soybean, cottonseed, grapeseed, and sesame oils. These oils have gained popularity for their versatility in cooking, from frying to baking. They are a staple in many households and restaurants—with some people claiming them as a healthier alternative to butter, coconut oil, palm oil, and lard. However, the production process of these oils raises some significant health concerns.</span></p>
<h2 data-mce-fragment="1">
<span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><br data-mce-fragment="1"></span><b data-mce-fragment="1">The Processing Problem</b>
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<p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Most seed oils undergo extensive processing involving high temperatures, bleaching, and chemical deodorization. This refinement strips the oils of many nutrients and antioxidants, leaving behind a product that lacks the health benefits it might have once contained. Additionally, synthetic preservatives, like </span><a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://repprovisions.com/blogs/rep-provisions-blog/7-reasons-seed-oils-are-bad-for-your-health?srsltid=AfmBOorTEKvyeKSnlvh3GoGb5sHWcdTO8f0ttdfP_Zt9BHCTlgzy-OLB" data-mce-href="https://repprovisions.com/blogs/rep-provisions-blog/7-reasons-seed-oils-are-bad-for-your-health?srsltid=AfmBOorTEKvyeKSnlvh3GoGb5sHWcdTO8f0ttdfP_Zt9BHCTlgzy-OLB"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">TBHQ and BHA</span></a><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">, are sometimes added to extend shelf life. These additives have been linked to various health issues and are even </span><a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://foodrevolution.org/blog/banned-ingredients-in-other-countries/#:~:text=BHA%20and%20BHT%20are%20popular,%2C%20Japan%2C%20and%20other%20countries." data-mce-href="https://foodrevolution.org/blog/banned-ingredients-in-other-countries/#:~:text=BHA%20and%20BHT%20are%20popular,%2C%20Japan%2C%20and%20other%20countries."><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">banned in several countries.</span></a></p>
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<h2 data-mce-fragment="1"><b data-mce-fragment="1">The Omega-6 to Omega-3 Imbalance</b></h2>
<p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">One of the primary concerns with seed oils is their high content of omega-6 fatty acids. While these fats are essential for our bodies in small amounts, they are overwhelmingly abundant in Western diets. The ideal omega-6 to omega-3 ratio </span><a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/seed-oils-are-they-actually-toxic" data-mce-href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/seed-oils-are-they-actually-toxic"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">should be about 2:1 or 1:1, but for many Americans, it ranges from 10:1 to 20:1.</span></a><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"> This imbalance can lead to chronic inflammation, which is associated with various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.</span></p>
<h2 data-mce-fragment="1"><b data-mce-fragment="1">Seed Oils and Inflammation</b></h2>
<p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The excessive intake of omega-6 fatty acids contributes to inflammatory processes in the body. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to serious health issues. Conditions such as arthritis, metabolic syndrome, and even certain cancers have been linked to the overconsumption of omega-6-rich seed oils.</span></p>
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<h2 data-mce-fragment="1"><b data-mce-fragment="1">Health Risks Linked to Seed Oils</b></h2>
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<li data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">
<b data-mce-fragment="1">Oxidative Stress:</b><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"> Seed oils are highly reactive and susceptible to rancidity, leading to </span><a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://repprovisions.com/blogs/rep-provisions-blog/7-reasons-seed-oils-are-bad-for-your-health?srsltid=AfmBOorTEKvyeKSnlvh3GoGb5sHWcdTO8f0ttdfP_Zt9BHCTlgzy-OLB" data-mce-href="https://repprovisions.com/blogs/rep-provisions-blog/7-reasons-seed-oils-are-bad-for-your-health?srsltid=AfmBOorTEKvyeKSnlvh3GoGb5sHWcdTO8f0ttdfP_Zt9BHCTlgzy-OLB"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">oxidative stress in the body.</span></a><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"> This imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants can cause cellular damage, increasing the risk of diseases like cancer and cardiovascular issues.</span>
</li>
<li data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">
<b data-mce-fragment="1">Trans Fats:</b><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"> Although trans fats naturally occur in small amounts, the processing of seed oils often leads to an increase in these harmful fats. Trans fats are known to raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease.</span>
</li>
<li data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">
<b data-mce-fragment="1">Negative Impact on Fertility: </b><a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0261561409001587" data-mce-href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0261561409001587"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Studies</span></a><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"> have found that men who were infertile had more than 2x the omega 6:3 ratio in their blood as compared to fertile men. Similarly, </span><a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/8/2183" data-mce-href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/8/2183"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">another study </span></a><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">showed that seed oils may impact maternal and fetal health in pregnant women. </span><a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1665502/" data-mce-href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1665502/"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">One study even found</span></a><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"> that excessive seed oil consumption during late stages of pregnancy increased risk of preterm labor. </span>
</li>
</ol>
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<h2 data-mce-fragment="1"><b data-mce-fragment="1">Healthier Alternatives</b></h2>
<p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">If you're looking to reduce your intake of seed oils, consider replacing them with healthier options. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and avocado oil are excellent alternatives. These oils are less processed, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and provide various health benefits. Using these oils in moderation can help improve your overall health while reducing the risks associated with seed oils.</span></p>
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<h2 data-mce-fragment="1"><b data-mce-fragment="1">Conclusion</b></h2>
<p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The potential health risk of seed oils cannot be ignored. The modern diet’s heavy reliance on these oils, coupled with their processing and high omega-6 content, poses significant health concerns. By opting for healthier alternatives and focusing on whole, unprocessed foods, you can take meaningful steps toward better health. Remember, moderation is key, and being mindful of the oils you choose can make a considerable difference in your overall well-being.</span></p>
<p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">At Good Ranchers, we’re proud to offer only products that are seed-oil free. In fact, we’re leading the charge with the industry’s first-ever seed-oil-free chicken nuggets, because your family deserves better. Crafted with whole chicken—never pre-formed—and cooked with clean, healthy avocado oil, these nuggets redefine what it means to eat well. Whether you’re serving them up for the kids or snagging a few for yourself, you can trust that they’re not only gluten-free and egg-free, but also free from antibiotics, added hormones, and those pesky seed oils you’ve been trying to avoid. With Good Ranchers, better food means better health—and we’re committed to restoring food to what it once was.</span></p>
<p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">For more information on these one-of-a-kind nuggets coming soon, </span><a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://www.goodranchers.com/pages/good-ranchers-chicken-nuggets" data-mce-href="https://www.goodranchers.com/pages/good-ranchers-chicken-nuggets"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">click here</span></a><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">. While you’re there, don’t forget to sign up to join our waiting list!</span></p>

Understanding Seed Oils: A Greasy Situation Unpacked

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<div data-mce-fragment="1">When it comes to barbecue, every little detail matters. One of those often-overlooked secrets is the use of a "binder." If you’re new to the term, a binder is a simple ingredient applied to meat before adding seasonings or rubs. The primary purpose of a binder is to help the rub stick better to the surface of the meat, ensuring an even, flavorful coating. But different binders can also bring out distinct textures, flavors, and benefits depending on the meat you're grilling or smoking.<br>In this post, we’ll take a closer look at three popular binders: mustard, olive oil, and mayo. We’ll explore when to use them, why they work, and how to apply them for the best results, along with the best meats to pair them with.</div>
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<br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mustard: The BBQ Classic Binder</strong></span><br>Mustard is one of the most well-known binders in the barbecue world. You’ve probably seen pitmasters slathering it onto ribs or pork butts before applying a dry rub. But don’t worry—mustard doesn't leave behind a strong flavor. Instead, it creates a thin, tacky layer that allows the rub to adhere more evenly.</div>
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<br><strong>Why Use Mustard?</strong><br>●  Mustard is water-based, which makes it easy to spread without overpowering the meat’s natural flavor.<br>●  It’s perfect for holding seasoning in place for longer cooking processes, like smoking.<br>●  The acidity in mustard can also tenderize the outer layer of meat, helping develop that coveted "bark."</div>
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<br><strong>When to Use Mustard:</strong>
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<div data-mce-fragment="1">Mustard is ideal for pork and ribs. It works wonders on large cuts like pork butts, spareribs, or St. Louis-style ribs, where you want a robust bark to form during long smoking sessions.</div>
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<br><strong>How to Use Mustard:</strong>
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<div data-mce-fragment="1">Apply a thin layer of mustard to the meat, using your hands to coat the entire surface. Once covered, add your rub immediately to allow it to stick to the meat’s surface. Then, it’s ready for the smoker or grill. </div>
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<br><br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Olive Oil: A Simple and Versatile Binder</strong></span><br>Olive oil is a more neutral binder that adds a slight richness without affecting the flavor profile. It’s a versatile choice, often used when grilling meats that benefit from a little extra moisture during the cooking process.</div>
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<br><strong>Why Use Olive Oil? </strong>
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<span data-mce-fragment="1">● </span>Olive oil provides moisture to leaner cuts of meat and prevents them from drying out.<br>●  It creates a smooth surface for your rub to adhere to, helping create a nice sear or crust on high-heat grills.<br>●  It doesn’t alter the taste, making it a great choice for subtle-flavored meats.</div>
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<div class="column" style="text-align: left;" data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="text-align: left;"><strong>When to Use Olive Oil: </strong></div>
<div class="column" style="text-align: left;" data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="text-align: left;">Olive oil works exceptionally well on chicken, turkey, and beef cuts like steaks or brisket. It’s also great for grilling vegetables, adding a bit of shine and enhancing flavors without overpowering them.</div>
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<br><strong>How to Use Olive Oil: </strong>
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<div class="column" style="text-align: left;" data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="text-align: left;">Brush a light coat of olive oil onto your meat before adding the rub. For large cuts like brisket, olive oil helps the rub cling to the surface while also ensuring the meat stays moist during the long cooking process.</div>
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<br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mayonnaise: The Secret to a Crispy Crust</strong></span><br>While it might sound surprising, mayonnaise is an incredible binder, especially for achieving a beautifully crisp crust. Mayonnaise is made from oil and eggs, which help hold the rub and also create a golden-brown exterior as it cooks.</div>
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<br><strong>Why Use Mayo?</strong><br>●  Mayonnaise adds fat and moisture, helping to prevent the meat from drying out during long cooks.<br>●  The fat content helps develop a rich, golden crust or "bark" when exposed to heat.<br>●  It locks in the seasoning for an even, flavorful coating.</div>
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<br><strong>When to Use Mayonnaise:</strong>
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<div class="column" style="text-align: left;" data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="text-align: left;">Mayonnaise is a game-changer for chicken and even brisket. Its high-fat content is excellent for leaner meats that need a little help with moisture retention. It’s particularly useful when grilling or smoking chicken thighs, wings, or whole birds.</div>
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<br><strong>How to Use Mayonnaise:</strong>
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<div class="column" style="text-align: left;" data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="text-align: left;">Apply a thin, even layer of mayonnaise to the meat. Don’t worry—just like mustard, you won’t taste it once the cooking process is done. After spreading the mayo, immediately add your rub, making sure it adheres well. Then, throw it on the grill or in the smoker and let the magic happen!</div>
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<br><em><strong>Final Thoughts</strong></em><br>Binders like mustard, olive oil, and mayonnaise are more than just glue for your rub—they each bring something unique to the table. Whether it’s enhancing the bark, adding moisture, or developing that perfect crust, choosing the right binder can elevate your BBQ to the next level.</div>
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<div class="column" style="text-align: left;" data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="text-align: left;">So next time you're prepping your meat, think about what kind of texture and flavor profile you're aiming for, and don't hesitate to experiment with these versatile binders!</div>
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What is a Binder in BBQ? Mustard, Olive Oil, and Mayo Explained.

<p>Get ready for the ultimate comfort food combo with our crispy Chicken and Waffles recipe, made with premium Good Ranchers chicken. This sweet and savory dish combines tender, golden-fried chicken with fluffy waffles for a mouthwatering meal perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Topped with warm maple syrup and a little butter, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you're hosting brunch or treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>For the Chicken:</strong></p>
<p><em>Ingredients:</em></p>
<ul>
<li><span>4 chicken breasts, flattened</span></li>
<li><span>1/2 cup milk</span></li>
<li><span>1/3 cup pickle juice</span></li>
<li><span>1 cup flour</span></li>
<li><span>1 tablespoon salt</span></li>
<li><span>1 tablespoon pepper</span></li>
<li><span>1 tablespoon onion powder</span></li>
<li><span>1 tablespoon paprika</span></li>
<li><span>1/4 tablespoon oregano</span></li>
<li><span>Lard for frying</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span> </span></p>
<p><strong>1. Soak the Chicken:</strong></p>
<p><span>   - In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup milk and 1/3 cup pickle juice.</span></p>
<p><span>   - Soak the flattened chicken breasts in the mixture for several hours in the fridge.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>2. Prepare the Breading:</strong></p>
<p><span>   - In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup flour, 1 tablespoon salt, 1 tablespoon pepper, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon paprika, and 1/4 tablespoon oregano. Mix well.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>3. Bread the Chicken:</strong></p>
<p><span>   - Remove the chicken breasts from the milk and pickle juice mixture and dredge each in the flour mixture in the bag, ensuring they are well coated by closing the bag and shaking it.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>4. Cook the Chicken:</strong></p>
<p><span>   - Heat lard in a frying pan over medium heat.</span></p>
<p><span>   - Cook each chicken breast for 2:30 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>For the Waffles:</strong></p>
<p><em>Ingredients:</em></p>
<ul>
<li>1/2 cup sourdough discard</li>
<li>1 cup flour</li>
<li>2 eggs</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 cup milk</li>
<li>1.5 teaspoons baking soda</li>
</ul>
<p> Mix ingredients and pour into waffle maker. Cook for two minutes on standard setting, top with the chicken and enjoy!</p>

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