Frequently Asked Questions about Golden Barrel Coconut Oil


Last weSoftball trophy for 3rd placeek, I was playing in a 16-team softball tournament for a team that our company was sponsoring. We had a great time and finished 3rd. Yay, Zook Molasses! Unfortunately, that weekend was probably the hottest and most humid days of the summer so far. Needless to say, we required a lot of water to stay hydrated.

When I got home after collecting our trophy (as you can see on the left, they gave a pretty large trophy for 3rd place), having played 6 grueling games in 2 days, I just wanted to relax in the air conditioning.  As I was walking through the kitchen to grab some refreshment, I noticed our bottle of Golden Barrel Coconut Oil was mostly liquid despite still being in the air conditioning. Yea, it was a hot day.

If you know anything about coconut oil, then you are probably accustomed to seeing the normal white, solidified oil in the jar. However, during the summer, it is not uncommon for coconut oil to melt or partially melt. This also leads to many customer questions and complaints thinking that something is greatly wrong with their coconut oil. This week, after the hot weekend, was no exception as I received numerous letters, calls, and emails.

Melted and Solid Golden Barrel Coconut Oil

I decided to write this post to address these questions and many others that I have gotten over the last few years. Hopefully, it will help educate those of you that are new to the wonders of this “Swiss Army Knife” of cooking oils.


My coconut oil is turning to a golden liquid color. Is there something wrong with it?

No. Our coconut oil is a white solid below 76°F and golden liquid above that. It can change forms back and forth depending on the temperature and will not affect the quality of the oil at all. Also, when the oil is right around 76°F, there can be some strange looking things going on such as clumps or little white balls. We even had a customer call in recently claiming that there were maggots floating in his new jar of coconut oil. Rest assured, such pieces are just bits of coconut oil not fully melted. No fly larvae involved.

If your oil is liquid and you would like it to be solid, simply place the container in the fridge for a few hours. Here is a video of our coconut oil being filled as a golden liquid:


Is your coconut oil edible?

Yes. Many people have been using it for years in their baking recipes or for frying as a healthful substitute in place of butter, shortening, or other cooking oils. See recipes using our coconut oil from our blog.


Is it organic?

No. Golden Barrel Refined Coconut Oil is not certified organic.


Is it GMO-free?

Yes. According to our suppliers, the coconuts are grown on palm trees that are not genetically modified.


How is it refined? 

According to our suppliers, the refined coconut oil is processed by pressing the dried coconut meat (copra). It is then purified with adsorbent clay, heat, and vacuums. After this, the oil is run through filters to remove any clay. It is then deodorized with a process of steam distillation, high heat, and vacuums. Next, it is filtered again before going into the final storage tank. After deodorization, a small amount of citric acid is added as a processing aid to the coconut oil for degumming purposes. Citric acid is considered worldwide to be a harmless food additive that is naturally found in citrus fruits. Finally, the oil is filtered two more times before being packaged. There is no hydrogenation which produces trans fats.


Why doesn’t it have a coconut taste or smell?

Refined coconut oil has gone through extra steps that have removed the coconut taste and smell. Some people desire the coconut aroma from extra virgin coconut oil but others do not. Some are even sickened by it. It is really just a matter of preference. As far as fatty acid content, they are exactly the same.


Where are the coconuts used to make Golden Barrel Coconut Oil harvested?

All of our coconut oil is sourced from coconuts grown in the Philippines.


Does it need to be refrigerated?

No. As stated above, coconut oil can change form from a solid to a liquid which does not affect the quality of the oil. It is one of the most stable cooking oils due to its high saturated fat content. We give ours a shelf life of 2 years.

If a solid is desired, then it can be stored in the fridge. Otherwise, storing it in a regular cupboard or pantry is sufficient.


Is it hydrogenated?

No. Our coconut is non-hydrogenated meaning that it contains no harmful trans fat. Some companies use hydrogenation to ensure a longer shelf life. It really is not necessary and has proven to be unhealthy.


Can I use it to bake?

Yes. It works wonderfully as a substitute for butter, shortening, or any other cooking oil.

Golden Barrel coconut oil used to make pie crust

Also, see our Butter Flavored Coconut Oil for baking without butter but still having the butter taste.


Can I use it to fry foods?

Yes. Refined coconut oil has a higher smoke point (400°F) than virgin coconut oil (350°F) making it ideal for frying.


Can I use it on my skin?

Absolutely. Many people buy our coconut oil to make soap and other cosmetics for skin and hair. In addition, many use it directly on their skin as a moisturizer right out of the jar. See our post: Refined Coconut oil to Treat Psoriasis.


What is the best way to melt the oil?

We recommend scooping it out into a prep bowl and heating in a microwave or in a double boiler on the stove. Do not put the jar in the microwave as it contains a metal seal that may spark.

Melting Coconut Oil in a Double Boiler


Isn’t saturated fat supposed to be really bad for you?

Up until a few years ago, it was commonly thought that all saturated fat was to be avoided. Since coconut oil is mostly saturated fat, it was rarely used as a cooking oil with the thought process that it was unhealthy and would clog arteries. It has since been proven that not all saturated fat is bad for you. In fact, most of the 90% saturated fat in coconut oil is medium-chain fatty acids which are found to be easily digested and quickly converted into energy. Almost 50% of the fatty acid content of coconut oil is lauric acid which is a great enhancer for the body’s immune system. In comparison, lauric acid is a main component of human breast milk which essentially protects children during infancy from illness. Another 7% of the fatty acids are capric acid which stimulates anti-viral activity in the body.


I have a strong nut allergy and am afraid to try coconut oil. Is this fear grounded?

Generally, a coconut differs from a tree nut in that it is actually a member of the palm family and is said to not cross-react with tree nuts. It is possible to be allergic to coconut itself but it is also possible to be allergic to tree nuts and peanuts and not coconuts. A few years ago, the FDA lumped coconuts and other nuts together as tree nuts for labeling purposes which did cause some confusion. In the case of coconut oil, the oil mentioned in this blog post is made from the Cocos Nucifera plant and is considered highly refined. This means that it has gone through several stages to remove impurities which would include the proteins that could cause allergic reactions. However, if you have a legitimate concern about a reaction, I would recommend consulting a doctor before trying coconut oil just to be safe.


Where can I buy Golden Barrel Coconut Oil?

You can purchase it right here through our website. Use the code, 10forme, to get 10% off your next order of our coconut oil or any other Golden Barrel product.

Golden Barrel Coconut Oil on a spoon in a prep bowl

I hope that these answers proved helpful and informative. Coconut oil may be different in form and texture than other cooking oils, but rest assured that it is perfectly normal. So the next time you notice something weird looking about your jar of Golden Barrel Coconut Oil, it may just simply be trying to tell you that the weather’s just right for softball.

If you have any other questions about our coconut oil, please feel free to ask them in the comments section below.


59 thoughts on "Frequently Asked Questions about Golden Barrel Coconut Oil"

  1. Sarah Sonnier says:

    I bought a jug of this oil and it says it is a ‘product of the USA’. From what I’m reading here, shouldn’t that read ‘Philippines’, not ‘USA’? I’m not sure how that all works but I thought that referred to where the product was sourced? It doesn’t make a huge difference to me, I’m just curious. Thanks!

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Sarah,
      That is an excellent question and observation. The coconuts themselves were grown and harvested in the Philippines but the actual process of making it into coconut oil was done in the USA thus making it a product of the USA. I know it sounds confusing, but think of it similar to a blend of syrup that has individual ingredients from all over the world but the final syrup was actually blended and produced in one country.

  2. Sarah says:

    Do you know where the citric acid is sourced from? While it is naturally occurring in citrus fruits it is often a by product of gmo corn. Thank you, Sarah

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      HI Sarah,

      Great question. According to our supplier, the citric acid is “from microbiological fermentation of carbohydrate (mostly from corn).” I wish I could say that it is from GMO-free corn but unfortunately I can’t. Again, the citric acid that is added during processing is 25 ppm (1 gram of citric acid per 1 million grams of coconut oil) which is a very small amount.

      Hope this helps.

      1. Nicole says:

        Can you please explain why the citric acid is not listed as an ingredient? I find this highly unethical and will be returning the jar I purchased.

        1. Mitch Hertzler says:

          Hi Nicole. We understand your concern. The purpose of citric acid during the coconut oil processing is as a degumming agent. It is added for its technical effect during processing but present in the finished oil at insignificant levels with no functional effect. Such processing aids are exempt from declaration in ingredient statements primarily because of its non-functionality in the finished coconut oil.

  3. Brian Prenger says:

    Can I use this product in my deep fryer instead of veg oil?

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Absolutely, refined coconut oil works great for frying as it has a high smoke point of 400 degrees F.


    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Mary,
      Check out this website of possible store locations from our distributor.
      You might be able to find a local store in your area.

  5. Mitch, I just happened upon the store and couldn’t help but buy such a highly acclaimed, natural product for my dry skin. I’ve found the coconut oil to have good absorption and my skin feels much better. Now – all this good information about the oil to cook with as well – I’m not too much of a baker but I’ll be using coconut oil now! Thank for the details you’ve provided!

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Darva,
      Thanks for using our coconut oil. My family uses coconut oil for all of our baking and cooking. Its easy to integrate and substitute even for people that don’t bake much. Enjoy!

  6. Can we freeze it? We’d like to buy a larger container and freeze some of it … thanks.

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Tim,
      That is a great question. I have never heard of anyone freezing coconut oil before so I cant say for sure how that would affect the oil. I can tell you that coconut oil is very shelf stable so it should definitely last at least 2 years and then some.

      1. Holly Jackson says:

        I freeze small dollops of coconut oil as treats for my dog-adding a crushed aspirin when he is in pain. He takes it like Candy. It will become harder but melts quickly in your hand. 76 degrees or warmer melts coconut oil.

        1. Mitch Hertzler says:

          Good idea. Coconut Oil is great for dogs as well. Thanks for sharing.

        2. Hello, can you tell me how long it will last/shelf life as a deep fry oil?, i only use it maybe a dozen times per year in a 3 gallon fryer and filter it after each use.And also how would i know when it has gone bad?

  7. Michele Larson says:

    I notice you also sell peanut oil so I am wondering if the coconut oil is processed in the same plant as the peanut oil?
    I have a grandson with a severe peanut and tree nut allergy and his mom will not use any product that is processed in a plant that also processes any peanut or tree nut products. I need to know if I can use Golden Barrel coconut oil when they visit.
    Thank you,

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      We do process both peanut and coconut oil in the same facility. However, peanut oil has its own dedicated line and is not run on the same equipment as coconut oil. Also, our peanut oil is considered highly refined which according to the manufacturer, means that the proteins have been removed making it safe for people with allergies. Take that for what it’s worth. Obviously, you have to make your own educated decisions when it comes to dealing with allergies.

  8. Andi says:

    Since this is refined, will it still have the same nutrients as unrefined? I want to use it on my hair as well as for cooking but my purpose is to add the nutrients/ antioxidants /good fats. I have purchased your product but I have not used it yet as I want to make sure it will still be effective.

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Andi,
      Yes, refined coconut oil has the same fatty acid/good fats and antibacterial content as virgin coconut oil. Many people use it for baking and for skin and hair use with very good results. It should definitely be effective for you.

      To say that it has all of the exact same nutrients as unrefined may not be completely true but it is very close and again does have the same good fats. It also costs significantly less.

  9. Tina says:

    Can this coconut oil b given to my dogs?

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Tina, yes it can absolutely be given to dogs. Many people use it to make dog treats. I am told that it helps improve skin conditions and digestion.

  10. Weso says:

    How long is the Coconut oil good past the expiration date? I’ve been reading that it has a 2 year self life and longer. I just purchased my first quart from a discount grocery store that still shows a 6 month out expiration date. From everything I read, I don’t think it will use it up quickly. Thanks

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi, yes we give our coconut oil a 2 year shelf life. Since that is our standard, I cant necessarily recommend anything beyond that but in reality it can last for much longer than that. Since, it is high in saturated fats, it is very stable. The sign to look for if you are going to use beyond the shelf life would a rancid taste or smell. However, I have yet to see that happen.

  11. Ann says:

    Bought mine today at horrocks. Hoping to get the best out of it

  12. Linn says:

    Hi Mitch,

    Great read! I just had a question. I bought a container of this coconut oil a few months ago, and just noticed that the “Best By” date was May 21st, 2016. Is this product still okay to use? I use it mostly for beauty and health purposes, but I do like to incorporate it into my baking now and then. Should I trust this jar of oil or just buy a new one?


    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Linn,
      Since coconut oil is so high in saturated fats, it is much more shelf stable than other oils. Odds are that it should still be fine even past its best by date. The only thing to look for really is a rancid taste or smell but that is pretty rare with coconut oil. If you want to ensure freshness then go ahead and buy a new one. Otherwise, your current one should be fine.

  13. myriam says:

    HI Mitch,
    just ordered a case of the coconut oil
    had it shipped to my cousins
    by the time I picked it up ,
    the weather was terribly hot
    and now the oil is liquefied
    from what I read there should be no issue
    and no difference at all in the quality of the oil
    I would like to know what you suggest
    for the placement of this oil
    it is still in the box it was shipped in
    so no place really in the pantry
    your ideas {of where to keep this oil}
    would be greatly appreciated

    thank you Mitch,
    Myriam in Montreal Quebec

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Myriam,
      Yes, that is perfectly normal for the oil to liquefy especially this time of year. If you are going to be storing the oil for a long time then I suggest a dark, cool place. But really it is fine to store it in a cupboard or pantry as long as you can make it fit or really anywhere in your house. It may stay liquid but will eventually solidify again as the weather cools. Like you said, being in the liquid form does not affect the quality.

      Let me know if you have any further questions.

  14. Thanks for sharing this information. Do your suppliers use chemicals, bleach or solvents in the refining process?

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Ryan,

      According to the suppliers, no chemicals are used in the refining process. It is expeller pressed.

  15. Gustav says:

    Would liquifying the oil more than once (to which the rest in the bottle would re harden each time, being my concern)-each time I want to accurately measure how much I’m using/needing-damage the product or shorten it’s shelf life or possibility of rancidity? Just enough heat to liquify it.

  16. spojmay says:

    is your coconut oil steam deodorized?

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi, yes according to the manufacture, deodorization is done with “steam stripping under high heat and vacuum.”

  17. CHARLES says:

    Greetings Mitch. I have just received my five gallon pail of your Golden Barrel of coconut oil. I’ve read much of the answers and comments. My question is, is it good for drinking?

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Charles,
      It is fully edible human grade refined coconut oil so yes it is good for drinking. I would recommend mixing it in with coffee or other favorite drink. It wont add any flavor but you can still get the benefits of the healthy fat. Also, if you were going to take it straight, I recommend not consuming too much at first until your body is more used to it. Hope this helps.

  18. Jill Evelyn says:

    Is you product cold pressed and/or extra virgin ?

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Jill, no our coconut oil is refined and not extra virgin so it has no coconut taste or smell. It is expeller pressed but not cold pressed. Cold pressing is only used when preserving the taste of the oil is necessary.

  19. Greg says:

    “Isn’t saturated fat supposed to be really bad for you?

  20. Greg says:

    I did my own research. It turns out that the AHA opinion on saturated fats is saturated with confusion and half-truths. Read the article; make your own conclusions. I’m so tired of corporations with vested interests influencing what is reported as “science” and “fact” to consumers. When will this form of corporate “fake news” become punishable? How many lives and fates are determined by trusting persons believing such fake science?

  21. Greg says:

    Sorry. Here’s the link to my just-posted comment:

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Greg, unfortunately your link required a login to view the article. But you are absolutely right. People should do their own research and not just trust the what corporations say.

  22. Telwar says:

    Why is Golden Barrel 5 Gallon Coconut oil cheaper than other sellers for 5 Gallon coconut oil?

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      That is a good question. Honestly, we have been selling coconut oil for many years, long before coconut oil was considered healthy or desirable. Most other sellers more recently caught on to the demand for coconut oil by selling it at higher prices. We have never raised our prices other than market fluctuations so that is why our prices are generally lower. Our coconut oil is no less quality than other refined coconut oils on the market.

  23. Mack says:

    Thanks for this FAQ article. I just received a shipment from you and wondered about the mixture of liquid and a big clump in the middle of the jar. I’m new to coconut oil so I didn’t have a clue. Your FAQ is just what i needed. Thanks again. Now I’m going to make some popcorn.

  24. Betty says:

    what is the ratio of your coconut oil to say vegetable or any other kind of oil? This is to use it in recipes. Thanks

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Betty, You should be able to replace vegetable oil with coconut oil with a 1 to 1 ratio.

  25. Jackie Wright says:

    hello, i am wondering if this could be used in te making of beard balms and oils for christmas? i love it for cookinusing says “cold pressed”oils. how big of a deal is that really?

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Jackie, coconut oil can absolutely be used for making balms or other things like that. It should work quite well. Really, the only reason why “cold pressed” would be desired is if you want to use Virgin Coconut Oil which still has the coconut taste and smell. Cold pressing helps preserve the coconut taste. Typically, virgin coconut oil is not used for soaps or balms unless you absolutely want it to smell like coconut. Hope this helps.

  26. David says:

    When using coconut oil for deep frying, how many times can you use it?

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi David. Unfortunately, we do not have a lot of information about reusing coconut oil for frying. However, online sources seem to indicate that coconut oil does not deteriorate as quick as some other oils even after hours of frying. This is most likely due to the high saturated fat content. Here is a reference to a study: Based on that information, it should be good to reuse several times. I just really cant say how many times that could be.

  27. I’m try a Keto cake recipe and it calls for 1 1/4 cup of melted ghee or coconut oil. My question to you is since my Golden Barrel coconut oil is solid do I just melt enough to make it 1 1/4 cups liquid?

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Yes, that is correct. Solid and liquid should be fairly similar as far as the measurement but measuring it as a liquid would be the most accurate.

  28. David M says:

    Hey there,

    Would you kindly tell me the ingredient used for “artificial butter flavoring“ in the Butter Flavored Coconut Oil? Is this diacetyl or something else?

    It’s a great product, have been buying cases from websterauntstore.. I just need to know what this flavoring is, even if it’s a “chemical”

  29. janice says:

    Why do you use plastic containers? Plastic leaches chemicals and is not really 100 percent recyclable as glass. I try to find my products without plastic. Thank you.

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Janice,
      We switched from glass to plastic jars about 20 years ago. We found that plastic was much easier to manage and ultimately a safer alternative to glass due to glass shards or breakage. All of our plastic containers are recyclable.

  30. Hello, How is the oil extracted? Does your company use any oil-extracting chemicals? Thank you.

    1. Mitch Hertzler says:

      Hi Nima, Our company does not extract the oil. We receive it in bulk from another company that says that it is expeller pressed.

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