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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Palm oil is used as a cooking oil and as an ingredient in a …
What it is
Palm oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fruit of oil palm trees. It is a semi-solid fat at room temperature and is widely used in cooking and processed foods due to its versatility and low cost. The oil is extracted from the pulp of the fruit.
Why it's used
Palm oil is used as a cooking oil and as an ingredient in a wide variety of processed foods. Its semi-solid consistency makes it useful for baked goods, confectionery, and spreads, helping to improve texture and shelf life. It is found in products like cookies, cakes, bread, chocolate, and ice cream.
Health notes
Palm oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of saturated fat, and its consumption has been debated in relation to heart health. Some studies suggest that high intake of saturated fats, including those found in palm oil, may raise LDL cholesterol levels. However, the overall health impact can depend on the type of fat within the oil and the overall dietary pattern. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated palm oil and its derivatives.
Allergen info
Palm oil is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.