Preservative Palm Oil

Palm oil is a vegetable oil extracted from the fruit of the oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis). It is a common ingredient in many processed foods worldwide.

Manufacturers use palm oil for its texture, stability, and versatility. It contributes to the mouthfeel of products, helps bind ingredients, and its resistance to oxidation can extend the shelf life of foods. It is commonly found in baked goods, snack foods, and confectionery.

Palm oil is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is high in saturated fat. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting saturated fat intake to under 10% of daily calories. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated dietary fats, including palm oil. While some studies suggest palm oil's specific saturated fat profile may have different effects than other saturated fats, the overall evidence is mixed, and dietary guidelines generally advise limiting total saturated fat.