Par-fried With Clear Liquid Frying Shortening

This ingredient refers to foods, typically fried products like mozzarella sticks or battered vegetables, that have been partially cooked in a liquid shortening. The shortening is usually a blend of oils, often including soybean oil, and may contain other ingredients like water, salt, and emulsifiers. The par-frying process helps to set the coating and partially cook the food, making it easier to finish cooking at home.

Manufacturers use par-frying with clear liquid shortening to improve the texture and shelf-life of frozen prepared foods. It helps create a crispy coating and ensures the product is evenly cooked when reheated. This method is common in frozen appetizers, battered vegetables, and other convenience foods that require quick preparation.

Clear liquid shortening is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is primarily composed of fats and oils, which provide calories and can contribute to the overall fat content of a food. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated various fats and oils used in food production. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical consumption of fats and oils within a balanced diet.