Partially Hydrogenated Sunflower Oil
All partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) - including partially hydrogenated sunflower oil - are no longer Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA, with manufacturers prohibited from adding PHOs to food after compliance dates of 2018-2021. EFSA and WHO call for elimination of industrial trans fats globally.
What it is
Sunflower oil that has been partially hydrogenated to increase saturation/melting point. A primary dietary source of industrial trans fatty acids (PHO).
Solid/semi-solid fat for shortening, frying, and shelf stability.
Why it's flagged
- Source of artificial trans fatty acids
- FDA revoked GRAS status effective 2018 for primary US dietary sources
What regulators actually say
"FDA made a final determination that there is no longer a consensus among qualified experts that partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) ... are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for any use in human food."
"Revocation of Uses of Partially Hydrogenated Oils in Foods."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
PHOs determined not GRAS (2015 final determination); manufacturers prohibited from adding PHOs to foods (2018-2021 compliance); 2023 direct final rule revoked remaining authorized uses
European Union — EFSA
EU Regulation 2019/649 limits industrial trans fat to 2 g/100 g fat in foods; WHO target is elimination by 2023
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