Partly Hydrogenated Palm Oil

Partly hydrogenated palm oil is a type of fat made from palm oil. Palm oil comes from the fruit of oil palm trees. To make partly hydrogenated oil, palm oil is treated with hydrogen gas under pressure, which makes it more solid and stable at room temperature.

Manufacturers use it to improve the texture and shelf life of foods. It helps prevent oils from separating and gives products a smoother feel. It is often found in baked goods, candies, and processed snacks.

Partly hydrogenated oils were a major source of artificial trans fats in the US food supply. In 2015, the FDA determined that artificial trans fats are no longer GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe). Manufacturers have largely removed them from products. The FDA has not set a specific upper limit for intake of this ingredient, but consumption of trans fats is discouraged by health organizations.