Palm Oil: Shea Oil
What is Palm Oil: Shea Oil?
Palm oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fruit of the oil palm tree, while shea oil is a fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree. Both are processed plant-based fats used in food production.
Is Palm Oil: Shea Oil vegan?
Palm Oil: Shea Oil is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Palm Oil: Shea Oil a major allergen?
Neither palm oil nor shea oil is considered a major allergen by the FDA.
What is Palm Oil: Shea Oil used for?
These oils are incorporated into foods to provide desired texture, mouthfeel, and product stability, and to extend shelf life.
Is Palm Oil: Shea Oil safe?
Both palm oil and shea oil contain saturated fats.
Why it's used
These oils are incorporated into foods to provide desired texture, mouthfeel, and product stability, and to extend shelf life. They are frequently found in confectionery, baked goods, and various processed snack items.
Health notes
Both palm oil and shea oil contain saturated fats. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans advise limiting saturated fat intake to less than 10% of daily calories. Palm oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, and JECFA has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. Shea oil is also considered safe for consumption. There are no specific health controversies regarding these oils themselves at typical dietary intake levels, beyond general nutritional guidance on fat consumption.
Allergen info
Neither palm oil nor shea oil is considered a major allergen by the FDA. Although shea nuts are botanically tree nuts, the refined oil is not typically associated with allergic reactions.
Foods that contain Palm Oil: Shea Oil
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