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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers previously used PHOs to improve the texture, stability, and shelf life of processed …
What it is
Partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (PHOs) are fats made from liquid vegetable oils, such as soybean or corn oil, that have been chemically altered. This process, called partial hydrogenation, adds hydrogen atoms to the oil molecules, making them more solid at room temperature.
Why it's used
Manufacturers previously used PHOs to improve the texture, stability, and shelf life of processed foods. They were commonly found in baked goods, fried foods, snack foods, and some margarines.
Health notes
Partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) are no longer generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in human food by the FDA, effective 2018. This regulatory action was taken because PHOs are the primary source of artificial trans fat in the diet. Scientific evidence has linked the consumption of artificial trans fat to an increased risk of heart disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also recommended the elimination of industrially produced trans fats.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen. However, the specific vegetable oil used (e.g., soy) may be a major allergen.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.