Partially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil
Partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) are the primary dietary source of industrial trans fat and are linked to coronary heart disease. In June 2015 the FDA issued a final declaratory order finding PHOs are no longer Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for any use in human food, with a compliance date of June 18, 2018.
What it is
Soybean oil that has been partially hydrogenated, creating industrial trans fatty acids (IP-TFA).
Historically used as a solid/semi-solid fat for shelf life, mouthfeel, and flavor stability in baked goods, frying fats, and shortenings.
Why it's flagged
- Industrial trans fat — raises LDL, lowers HDL, increases coronary heart disease risk
- No safe level of intake
What regulators actually say
"FDA made a final determination that there is no longer a consensus among qualified experts that partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), which are the primary dietary source of industrially produced trans fatty acids, are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for any use in human food."
"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 for use in human food; FDA determined PHOs are not GRAS (80 FR 34650, June 17, 2015); compliance date June 18, 2018.
European Union — EFSA
EU Regulation (EU) 2019/649 limits industrial trans fat to 2 g per 100 g fat in foods for the final consumer (since April 2021).
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