Partially Hydrogenated Pal Kernel Oil

Partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil is a type of fat made from palm kernel oil. Palm kernel oil comes from the kernel (seed) of the oil palm tree. Partial hydrogenation is a process that adds hydrogen to the oil, making it more solid at room temperature and increasing its shelf life.

Manufacturers used partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil to improve the texture and stability of foods. It was often found in baked goods, snack foods, and processed items to give them a desirable mouthfeel and longer shelf life.

Partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) are no longer considered Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA since 2018. This action removed most artificial trans fats from the US food supply. Artificial trans fats, which were primarily found in PHOs, are known to raise 'bad' cholesterol (LDL) and lower 'good' cholesterol (HDL), increasing the risk of heart disease. The FDA determined that there is no safe level of artificial trans fat consumption.