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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use palm oil as a fat or oil in a wide range of …
What it is
Palm oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fruit of oil palm trees. It is a semi-solid fat at room temperature and is widely used in food production due to its versatility and relatively low cost. The oil is extracted from the fleshy pulp of the fruit.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use palm oil as a fat or oil in a wide range of baked goods, processed foods, and cooking ingredients. It helps improve texture, stability, and shelf life. It is commonly found in cakes, cookies, bread, chocolate, and fried snacks.
Health notes
Palm oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of saturated fat, and dietary guidelines recommend limiting saturated fat intake. JECFA has evaluated palm oil and established specifications for its use. Some research has explored the health effects of palm oil consumption, but evidence on its impact on heart health at typical dietary levels is mixed and requires further study.
Allergen info
Palm oil is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.