Fact-checked by Lucent 3 months ago
Partially hydrogenated oil (PHO) is a type of vegetable oil that has been chemically altered to be solid at room temperature, increasing its shelf life and stability [Source X]. However, PHOs are a major source of artificial trans fats, which have been linked to numerous health concerns [Source X]. Due to these health risks, many countries have banned or restricted the use of PHOs in food products [Source X].
Partially hydrogenated oil is created through a process called partial hydrogenation, where hydrogen is added to liquid vegetable oils to solidify them. This process changes the oil's molecular structure, creating trans fats [Source X].
Used in processed foods to improve texture and shelf life [Source X]
Formerly common in margarine, shortening, baked goods, and fried foods [Source X]
High, due to the well-publicized health risks associated with trans fats [Source X]
Associated with unhealthy processed foods [Source X]
Perceived negatively due to links with trans fats and health risks [Source X]
Largely negative due to health concerns and regulatory actions against its use [Source X]
Procter & Gamble introduces Crisco, a partially hydrogenated cottonseed oil, as a cheaper alternative to animal fats [Source X]
Increased awareness and research highlight the negative health effects of trans fats [Source X]
The FDA determines that PHOs are no longer Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) in human food [Source X]
PHOs are banned in the United States, with some exceptions [Source X]
To create a solid fat from liquid oils for use in food products, enhancing shelf life and stability [Source X]
PHOs are a primary source of artificial trans fats in processed foods [Source X]
Consumption of trans fats increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes [Source X]
Trans fats have no known health benefits and are considered detrimental to cardiovascular health [Source X]
Association of Dietary, Circulating, and Adipose Tissue Biomarkers of Fatty Acids With Coronary Heart Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
This study found a significant association between trans fat intake and an increased risk of coronary heart disease [Source X]
Unsafe for consumption due to the high levels of trans fats [Source X]
While the complete ban on PHOs has reduced trans fat levels in many foods, some products may still contain trace amounts. Always check food labels for trans fat content [Source X].
Unsaturated Oils (e.g., olive oil, canola oil)
Healthier fats that do not contain trans fats and offer beneficial fatty acids [Source X]
Where to find: Available in most grocery stores [Source X]
Butter
A natural fat source that, while high in saturated fat, does not contain trans fats [Source X]
Where to find: Dairy section of grocery stores [Source X]
Coconut Oil
Solid at room temperature and can be used in some baking applications, though it is high in saturated fat [Source X]
Where to find: Health food stores and some grocery stores [Source X]
Read food labels carefully to check for 'partially hydrogenated oil' or 'trans fat' [Source X]
Choose fresh, whole foods over processed items [Source X]
Be cautious of baked goods, fried foods, and snacks, as they are common sources of trans fats [Source X]