Ingredient

Oil Shortening

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Shortening is used in baking to make doughs tender and flaky, and to prevent …

What it is

Oil shortening is a solid fat, typically made from vegetable oils like soybean, palm, or canola. It is processed to be solid at room temperature, often through hydrogenation, which changes the oil's structure. This gives it a smooth, creamy texture.

Why it's used

Shortening is used in baking to make doughs tender and flaky, and to prevent sticking. It's also used in frying to create a crisp texture. You can find it in cookies, cakes, pastries, and fried foods.

Health notes

In the U.S., oil shortening is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. It is a source of fat and calories. Some shortenings may contain trans fats, which the FDA has determined are not GRAS for use in food. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated fats and oils, including those used in shortening, and have established acceptable daily intakes for certain components.

Allergen info

Shortening is not typically derived from one of the 9 FDA major allergens. However, some shortenings may be made with soybean oil, which is a major allergen. Check product labels for specific ingredients.

Products containing Oil Shortening

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Meijer, Inc. Sesame Chicken With Vegetable Fried Rice, Sesame Chicken Other Deli High in sodium — 88% DV per serving 138kcal 8.2Protein 3.4Fat 18.6Carbs Taylor Fresh Foods, Inc. Sesame Chicken With Vegetable Fried Rice Fried White Chicken Meat And Sesame Sauce With Fried Rice And Broccoli, Sesame Chicken Other Deli High in sodium — 37% DV per serving 141kcal 7.0Protein 3.2Fat 19.7Carbs Taylor Fresh Foods, Inc. Breaded Chicken Truffle Mac & Cheese Butter, Breaded Chicken Truffle Mac & Cheese Other Deli High in sodium — 25% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 23% DV per serving 214kcal 12.1Protein 12.9Fat 13.6Carbs Taylor Fresh Foods, Inc. Chicken Katsu Inspired With Jasmine Rice Fully Cooked Breaded White Chicken Meat In A Katsu Sauce With Rice, Cabbage And Sesame Seeds Ready Meals, Chicken Katsu Inspired With Jasmine Rice Other Deli High in sodium — 75% DV per serving High in added sugars — 26% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 23% DV per serving 151kcal 7.7Protein 2.7Fat 23.0Carbs

Meijer, Inc. Signature, Chicken Parmesan Topped With Marinara Sauce And Mozzarella Cheese Served With Spaghetti, Marinara Sauce, And Parmesan Cheese, Chicken Parmesan Other Deli High in sodium — 81% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 34% DV per serving 134kcal 8.9Protein 4.8Fat 14.6Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.