Palm And Fractionated Palm Oil

Palm oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fruit of oil palm trees. Fractionated palm oil is palm oil that has been separated into liquid and solid components through a process called fractionation. This process yields oils with different melting points and textures.

Manufacturers use palm oil and its fractions for their solid texture at room temperature, which helps improve the mouthfeel and structure of baked goods. They also act as a stable fat source in processed foods like cookies, cakes, and bread mixes.

Palm oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is a source of saturated fat, and diets high in saturated fat are linked to increased risk of heart disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends limiting intake of saturated fats. JECFA has evaluated palm oil and set an acceptable daily intake. Evidence on the health effects of palm oil consumption is mixed, with some studies suggesting potential negative impacts due to its saturated fat content, while others highlight its nutritional profile, including vitamin E.