Soybean Oil
What is Soybean Oil?
Soybean oil is a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the soybean plant. It is one of the most widely used cooking oils globally. The oil is obtained by crushing soybeans and then extracting the oil using solvents, followed by refining processes.
Is Soybean Oil vegan?
Soybean Oil is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Soybean Oil a major allergen?
Soybean oil is derived from soy, which is one of the nine major food allergens identified by the FDA.
What is Soybean Oil used for?
Manufacturers add soybean oil to a wide variety of processed foods for its neutral flavor, versatility, and cost-effectiveness.
Is Soybean Oil safe?
In the United States, soybean oil is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add soybean oil to a wide variety of processed foods for its neutral flavor, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. It is commonly used in frying, baking, and as an ingredient in margarines, salad dressings, and snack foods. It also contributes to texture and shelf life.
Health notes
In the United States, soybean oil is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is a source of polyunsaturated fats, including omega-6 fatty acids. JECFA has evaluated soybean oil and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified), concluding it is not a safety concern at current intake levels. Some discussions exist regarding the balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the diet, but evidence on specific health outcomes from soybean oil consumption at typical levels is mixed.
Allergen info
Soybean oil is derived from soy, which is one of the nine major food allergens identified by the FDA. However, highly refined soybean oil is generally exempt from allergen labeling requirements because the allergenic proteins are removed during processing.
Foods that contain Soybean Oil
Compare products →
Learn more
Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.