Choosing the right argan oil can be difficult and keeping certain factors in mind while selecting a product can help. Listed are some guidelines that can help pick the right product. Origin: Argan trees are native to Morocco and are grown sustainably for producing pure argan oils. Most quality brands are certified organic and approved by USDA for culinary and cosmetic purposes. If the label does not indicate Morocco, then the oil is probably a cheap substitute. Purpose: Argan oil is used for culinary and cosmetic purposes. While culinary argan oil is 100% pure and has a stronger scent and flavor which is considered useful, cosmetic ones are extremely mild or mixed with other ingredients for better results. Color: Argan oil is naturally golden in color. While the ones used in cosmetics can have a light golden hue, the argan kernels are roasted for culinary purposes and hence tend to be dark golden. Scent: Argan oil especially the culinary ones are prized for their strong nutty smell and flavor which adds a delightful twist to most food preparations. The cosmetic variants made from unroasted, cold-pressed kernels have a milder scent that is suitable for use in beauty and therapeutic products. Packaging: Pure argan oil is packed in amber or darker-colored bottles. This is believed to prevent deterioration of the oil and its nutrients owing to oxidation or sunlight.