Palm Oil Cottonseed Oil

Palm oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fruit of oil palms. Cottonseed oil is extracted from the seeds of cotton plants. Both are common cooking oils used in food manufacturing.

These oils are used for their neutral flavor and ability to improve texture and shelf life in processed foods. They are frequently found in baked goods, snacks, fried foods, and confectionery.

Palm oil and cottonseed oil are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Both are sources of fat, and like other fats, excessive consumption can contribute to high calorie intake. JECFA has evaluated both oils. Concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of palm oil production and the potential presence of gossypol in unrefined cottonseed oil, though refining processes typically remove it.