Sugar Partially Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil

This ingredient is a blend of sugar and partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil. Sugar is a common sweetener, typically sucrose, derived from plants like sugarcane or sugar beets. Partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil is a fat made from palm kernel oil that has been processed to change its texture and stability, often making it more solid at room temperature.

Manufacturers use this ingredient primarily as a sweet coating or a solid fat component in confectionery products. The sugar provides sweetness, while the partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil contributes to texture, mouthfeel, and helps prevent melting, commonly found in items like chocolate-covered snacks, candies, and baked goods.

Sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, but the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams per meal. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises limiting free sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake. Partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), which contain artificial trans fats, are no longer considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA since 2018 due to their link to increased risk of heart disease. The FDA's action effectively removed most artificial trans fats from the US food supply.