Palm And Palm Stearin
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What it is
Palm oil is a vegetable oil extracted from the fruit of the oil palm tree. Palm stearin is a solid fraction of palm oil, separated through a process called fractionation. This process separates palm oil into liquid (olein) and solid (stearin) components based on their melting points.
Why it's used
Palm oil and palm stearin are used in many processed foods due to their stability, texture, and cost-effectiveness. They provide a creamy texture to products, help extend shelf life, and are suitable for frying. They are commonly found in baked goods, snacks, confectionery, and margarines.
Health notes
Palm oil is a common food ingredient and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is high in saturated fat. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend keeping saturated fat intake to less than 10% of daily calories. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated palm oil as a food ingredient, noting its fatty acid composition. There is ongoing scientific discussion regarding the specific health effects of different types of saturated fats, including those found in palm oil.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.