Partially Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil
Also known as: phpko
All 'partially hydrogenated [X] oil' entries are banned. The FDA's final determination revoked GRAS status for PHOs because they are the major source of artificial industrial trans fat.
What it is
Palm kernel oil that has undergone partial catalytic hydrogenation, creating industrial trans fatty acids.
Historically used in confectionery coatings, non-dairy creamers, and shortenings for solid-fat properties.
Why it's flagged
- Industrial trans fat
- Increased LDL cholesterol
- Increased coronary heart disease risk
What regulators actually say
"FDA finalized its determination that partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs)... are no longer Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)... For the majority of uses of PHOs, June 18, 2018, remains the date after which manufacturers cannot add PHOs to foods."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
BANNED — PHOs are no longer GRAS; cannot be added to food after June 18, 2018.
European Union — EFSA
Industrial trans fats limited to ≤2 g/100 g fat in foods sold to consumers (Reg. (EU) 2019/649).
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