Fractionated Palm Oil
Fractionated palm oil contains negligible industrial trans fat (unlike partially hydrogenated oil), but is high in saturated fat (palmitic acid), which raises LDL cholesterol comparably to other saturated fats. Sustainability and contaminants (3-MCPD, glycidyl esters from refining) are additional EFSA concerns.
What it is
Palm oil that has been physically separated (without hydrogenation) into liquid (olein) and solid (stearin) fractions by controlled crystallization.
Solid or semi-solid fat for confectionery, frying, and baked goods.
Why it's flagged
- high saturated fat raises LDL cholesterol
- process contaminants (3-MCPD, glycidyl esters)
What regulators actually say
"Glycidyl fatty acid esters (GE), 3-monochloropropane diol (3-MCPD)... contaminants formed during food processing - in particular, when refining vegetable oils at high temperatures (around 200°C) - have raised potential health concerns."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Conventional food fat
European Union — EFSA
Authorized; process contaminants regulated under Reg. (EU) 2020/1322
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