Ingredient

Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil Shortening

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use partially hydrogenated vegetable oil shortening to improve the texture, stability, and mouthfeel …

What is Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil Shortening?

Partially hydrogenated vegetable oil shortening is a type of fat made from liquid vegetable oils, such as soybean or corn oil. It is produced by adding hydrogen to these oils in a process called partial hydrogenation, which makes them more solid at room temperature. This process also helps to extend the shelf life of food products.

Is Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil Shortening vegan?

Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil Shortening is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil Shortening a major allergen?

Partially hydrogenated vegetable oil shortening can be derived from vegetable oils like soybean oil, which is one of the nine major food allergens identified by the FDA.

What is Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil Shortening used for?

Manufacturers use partially hydrogenated vegetable oil shortening to improve the texture, stability, and mouthfeel of many processed foods.

Is Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil Shortening safe?

In the United States, partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) are no longer considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA as of 2018.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use partially hydrogenated vegetable oil shortening to improve the texture, stability, and mouthfeel of many processed foods. It was commonly found in baked goods like cookies, crackers, and pastries, as well as in some fried foods, to give them a desirable consistency and longer shelf life.

Health notes

In the United States, partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) are no longer considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA as of 2018. This action effectively removed most artificial trans fats from the US food supply. Artificial trans fats, which were a byproduct of partial hydrogenation, have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Regulatory bodies like JECFA have also evaluated trans fatty acids.

Allergen info

Partially hydrogenated vegetable oil shortening can be derived from vegetable oils like soybean oil, which is one of the nine major food allergens identified by the FDA. Consumers with allergies should check product labels for specific oil sources.

Foods that contain Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil 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.