In Tamil Nadu, Sibi Manivannan draws on cherished childhood memories and his family legacy to bring back wood cold-pressed oils, offering a healthier and flavorful alternative to refined oils through his company Gramiyaa.
- Revived wood cold-pressed oils with traditional stone mills
- Uses only low-moisture, sun-dried seeds for extraction
- Produces 50,000 liters monthly with natural, aromatic oils
What happened
Sibi Manivannan, an engineer from Tamil Nadu, resurrected his grandfather’s small oil pressing business which had shut down in the 1990s due to the rise of refined oils. Inspired by the nostalgic aroma and superior taste of traditional dosas made with his grandfather’s wood cold-pressed oils, Sibi launched Gramiyaa in 2017 with two college friends.
The company uses traditional stone mills and wooden pestles to extract oil from carefully sourced, low-moisture seeds that are sun-dried rather than roasted. This minimal processing retains flavor, nutrients, and aroma, avoiding the harmful trans fats commonly found in refined oils. Gramiyaa produces approximately 50,000 liters of groundnut, sesame, and coconut cold-pressed oils every month.
Why it feels good
Gramiyaa’s dedication to traditional methods offers a healthier, preservative-free alternative to heavily processed refined oils, which often contain chemical residues and lose natural nutrients through high heat and hydrogenation processes. This commitment to quality connects with consumers seeking authenticity and wellness in their food choices.
Moreover, packaging the oils in opaque paperboard cartons protects them from sunlight, maintaining freshness longer than usual glass or plastic bottles. Customers appreciate the thicker consistency and richer aroma, which enhance the cooking experience and bring back cherished home-cooked flavors from past generations.
What to enjoy or watch next
Those interested in exploring healthier cooking options can try Gramiyaa’s range of cold-pressed oils—groundnut, sesame, and coconut—that deliver natural taste with minimal processing. The company’s story also highlights the broader appeal of reviving artisanal food crafts in modern markets.
Looking ahead, Gramiyaa’s journey can inspire many to preserve traditional food wisdom while embracing sustainable business models. It’s a wonderful example of how family heritage, quality standards, and community values come together to create products that nourish both body and soul.