Palm And Palm Kernel With TBHQ For Freshness

Palm oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fruit of oil palm trees. Palm kernel oil comes from the seed of the same fruit. TBHQ (tertiary butylhydroquinone) is a synthetic antioxidant.

These oils are used in many processed foods for their texture and stability. TBHQ is added to prevent oils from going rancid and to extend shelf life. They are commonly found in baked goods like cookies, crackers, and biscuits.

Palm oil and palm kernel oil are fats and contribute to the total fat and saturated fat content of foods. The FDA considers TBHQ to be safe as a preservative when used according to regulations. JECFA has evaluated TBHQ and established an acceptable daily intake. Some studies have raised questions about the health effects of TBHQ at very high doses, but regulatory bodies consider it safe at typical usage levels in food.