Ingredient

Oils/shortenings: Soybean

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use soybean oil as a cooking oil and as an ingredient in many …

What it is

Soybean oil is a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the soybean plant. It is one of the most widely used cooking oils in the United States. The oil is typically refined, bleached, and deodorized before being used in food products.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use soybean oil as a cooking oil and as an ingredient in many processed foods. Its neutral flavor and versatility make it suitable for frying, baking, and as a base for salad dressings and sauces. It is commonly found in chips, pretzels, crackers, and baked goods.

Health notes

Soybean oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, including omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated soybean oil. Research on the health effects of soybean oil consumption is ongoing, with some studies suggesting benefits from its fatty acid profile, while others raise questions about the balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the modern diet.

Allergen info

Soybean is one of the nine major allergens designated by the FDA. Therefore, soybean oil is considered a major allergen.

Products containing Oils/shortenings: Soybean

Compare products →

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.