As a nutrition and culinary expert with extensive experience in the food industry, I am often asked about the caloric content of various cooking oils. It's a common misconception that all oils are created equal when it comes to their nutritional value. In reality, the caloric content and health benefits of oils can vary significantly, depending on their source and the way they are processed.

When we talk about the oil with the least calories, it's important to note that oils are primarily composed of fats, and fats are naturally high in calories. A gram of fat contains approximately 9 calories, which is more than twice the calories found in a gram of either carbohydrates or protein. However, the difference in caloric content between different oils is not substantial, as they are all high in fat.

The table you've provided gives a breakdown of the caloric content of various oils. It's interesting to see that cottonseed oil has the lowest calories per 14 grams, with 119 calories, followed closely by extra-virgin olive oil and flaxseed oil, both at 120 calories per 14 grams. Grapeseed oil also has a similar caloric content, with 120 calories but slightly less fat content at 13.6 grams per 14 grams.

It's important to consider that the slight differences in calories may not be significant in the context of overall dietary intake. The choice of oil should not solely be based on calorie content but also on the type of fat it contains. For instance, oils rich in monounsaturated fats, like olive oil, are considered healthier due to their heart-healthy properties. Similarly, oils high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseed oil, are beneficial for brain health and reducing inflammation.

Moreover, the processing method of the oil can also affect its nutritional profile. Cold-pressed oils, like extra-virgin olive oil, retain more of their natural nutrients and antioxidants compared to oils that undergo high heat or chemical processing.

In conclusion, while cottonseed oil may have the least calories per 14 grams according to the provided data, the choice of oil should be based on a combination of factors including the type of fat, the health benefits, and the processing method. It's also crucial to remember that the overall diet and lifestyle are more important than focusing on the calories in a single ingredient.

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Cooking-Oil BreakdownOilCaloriesTotal Fat(g)Cottonseed oil11914Extra-virgin olive oil12014Flaxseed oil12013.6Grapeseed oil12013.620 more rowsread more >>