Ingredient

Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Animal Shortening

Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers historically used this shortening to improve the texture, stability, and shelf life of …

What is Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Animal Shortening?

Partially hydrogenated vegetable animal shortening is a type of fat created by adding hydrogen to liquid vegetable oils and animal fats. This process, called partial hydrogenation, makes the fat more solid at room temperature and increases its shelf life. It results in the formation of artificial trans fats.

Is Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Animal Shortening vegan?

No. Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Animal Shortening is animal-derived, so it is not vegan.

Is Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Animal Shortening a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Animal Shortening used for?

Manufacturers historically used this shortening to improve the texture, stability, and shelf life of baked goods and fried foods.

Is Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Animal Shortening safe?

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determined that partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), which are the primary source of artificial trans fat, are no longer generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food, effective in 2018.

Why it's used

Manufacturers historically used this shortening to improve the texture, stability, and shelf life of baked goods and fried foods. It provided a desirable mouthfeel and structure, especially in cakes, cookies, and snack foods.

Health notes

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determined that partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), which are the primary source of artificial trans fat, are no longer generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food, effective in 2018. This action effectively removed most artificial trans fat from the food supply due to concerns about its impact on heart health. Scientific bodies like JECFA have evaluated trans fatty acids.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. While derived from vegetable oils (which can come from soy or other sources) and animal fats, the processing typically removes allergenic proteins.

Foods that contain Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Animal Shortening

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.