Why is flaxseed oil bad for cast iron?

It produces an incredibly brittle and flaky layer that peels off easily, even though it was once highly recommended.

Can i use regular olive oil to season cast iron?

Regular olive oil has a low smoke point, which causes excessive smoking and often leaves a sticky or spotty finish.

Is peanut oil safe for cast iron?

It works for seasoning, but users warn against it because household members or guests could have severe allergic reactions.

What about ghee and coconut oil?

Users advise against both because their low iodine number means they do not polymerize well, resulting in less effective seasoning.

Worst Oils for Seasoning Cast Iron Pans

Flaxseed oil creates a brittle and flaky layer, making it a poor choice despite older advice favoring it.

Oils with low smoke points, including regular olive oil, should be avoided because they cause sticky or spotty finishes and excessive smoking.

Never use non-food-safe oils like motor oil on cookware. Users also advise skipping ghee, coconut oil, and peanut oil due to allergy risks and poor polymerization.

Worst Oils for Seasoning Cast Iron Pans — infographic

For seasoning cast iron, flaxseed oil, olive oil, and oils with low smoke points are generally not recommended by Users, along with non-food-safe oils like motor oil.

Oils to Avoid

Flaxseed Oil: Many Users report that flaxseed oil, despite early recommendations, often results in a seasoning that is brittle and prone to flaking or peeling. "Flaxseed has a very low smoke point and also produces an incredibly brittle and flaky seasoning."

Low Smoke Point Oils: Oils with low smoke points, such as regular olive oil, can cause excessive smoking and lead to a spotty or sticky seasoning. "Anything with a low smoke point should be avoided."

Non-Food-Safe Oils: Obviously, any oil not intended for consumption, like motor oil, should never be used to season cast iron. "Motor oil isn’t good for seasoning."

Other Considerations

Allergies: While peanut oil works for seasoning, some Users advise against it due to potential severe allergic reactions for household members or guests. "The main downside of using peanut oil is if anyone in your household or a possible dinner guest happens to be allergic to peanuts."

Ghee/Coconut Oil: Some Users suggest avoiding ghee and coconut oil due to their low iodine number, which can result in less effective seasoning. "Don't season with ghee nor coconut oil. Doesn't work well due to low iodine number."

Do you want to know which oils are recommended for seasoning cast iron?