Powdered Vegetable Shortening

Powdered vegetable shortening is a solid fat made from vegetable oils. It is typically produced by hydrogenating liquid vegetable oils, a process that makes them more solid at room temperature. The "powdered" form is created by adding starches or other anti-caking agents to prevent clumping.

Manufacturers add powdered vegetable shortening to provide a smooth texture, improve shelf life, and prevent ingredients from sticking together. It is commonly found in baked goods like cookies and cakes, as well as in icings and dessert toppings.

Powdered vegetable shortening is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is primarily a source of fat. While some older forms of vegetable shortening contained significant amounts of trans fats, modern processing methods have greatly reduced or eliminated these. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated fats and oils, including hydrogenated vegetable oils, and have established acceptable intake levels.