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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
These oils are used in a wide variety of processed foods due to their …
What it is
Coconut oil is extracted from the flesh of mature coconuts. Palm oil is extracted from the fruit of oil palm trees. Both are tropical oils that are solid at room temperature due to their high saturated fat content.
Why it's used
These oils are used in a wide variety of processed foods due to their texture, stability, and flavor. They function as fats and oils, providing richness and mouthfeel in products like baked goods, confectionery, and snack foods.
Health notes
Coconut oil and palm oil are primarily composed of saturated fats. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not set specific upper intake levels for saturated fats, but dietary guidelines recommend limiting their consumption. International bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated saturated fats, with recommendations to limit intake due to potential effects on blood cholesterol levels. Evidence on the specific health impacts of coconut oil versus other saturated fats is mixed and an area of ongoing research.
Allergen info
Coconut is considered a tree nut by the FDA for labeling purposes, making it one of the major allergens. Palm oil is not a major allergen.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.