Palm Shortening Palm Oil

Palm shortening is a semi-solid fat made from palm oil. Palm oil comes from the fruit of oil palm trees, grown in tropical regions. The oil is extracted from the fruit and then refined, bleached, and deodorized. It can also be hydrogenated to make it more solid at room temperature.

Palm shortening is used in baking and processed foods because it helps improve texture, stability, and shelf life. It provides a smooth, creamy texture in products like cakes, cookies, and pastries. It's also used in ice cream and other frozen desserts for its ability to prevent ice crystal formation.

Palm oil is a source of saturated fat, and high intake of saturated fat is linked to increased risk of heart disease. However, some research suggests that the type of saturated fat in palm oil may have a less harmful effect than other saturated fats. The FDA lists palm oil as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). JECFA and EFSA have evaluated palm oil and its derivatives. Evidence on the health effects of palm oil is mixed, with some studies showing potential benefits and others highlighting concerns related to its saturated fat content.