Ingredient · Updated
Canola Oil
Found in 46 productsSee all
Dan D pak Cashews
Dave's Killer Bread Organic Bagels
Land O Lakes BUTTER WITH CANOLA OIL SPREAD
Essential Baking San Francisco Style Sourdough, Artisan Bread
Kirkland Signature MOZZARELLA CHEESE LOW MOISTURE PART SKIM SHREDDED
Bob's Red Mill HONEY OAT LIGHTLY SWEETENED GRANOLA
KIND ALMOND BUTTER WHOLE GRAIN CLUSTERS
Country Crock PLANT BUTTER WITH AVOCADO OIL 79% PLANT-BASED OIL SPREAD What is Canola Oil?
Canola oil is a type of vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the canola plant, a cultivar of rapeseed. It is produced through a process that includes seed cleaning, cooking, pressing, solvent extraction, and refining. The refining process removes impurities and can alter the natural fatty acid profile.
Canola oil is commonly used in cooking and food processing due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it versatile for frying and baking. It is marketed as heart-healthy because it is low in saturated fats and contains omega-3 fatty acids. However, some concerns exist regarding its omega-6 content, which might contribute to inflammation if not balanced with omega-3 intake.
When you see canola oil listed on a label, consider its role in the product's taste and shelf stability. It is usually chosen for being a cost-effective oil with a broad range of culinary applications.
Commonly found in: salad dressings, margarines, baked goods, frying oils, snack foods
What to watch
- Canola oil is high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
- The refining process can involve high heat and chemical solvents, potentially impacting nutrient content.
Benefits
- Canola oil is low in saturated fats and contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are considered beneficial for heart health.
Canola oil is recognized as a Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) ingredient by the FDA for its intended use.
Research highlights both potential cardiovascular benefits due to its low saturated fat and concerns over omega-6 content and processing methods.
Canola oil is plant-derived and typically considered suitable for vegan diets.
Sources: Canola Oil Overview
Scout's take
Canola oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. It is often highly processed and refined, which can degrade its nutritional quality. The high omega-6 content is a concern for inflammatory health issues.
The case against
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation and contribute to chronic diseases when consumed in excess.
from the analysis of Wegmans Canola Oil Cooking Spray · echoed in 15 other analysesHigh omega-6 content may promote inflammation and is associated with potential health concerns when consumed in large amounts.
from the analysis of Wheat Thins Original · echoed in 1 other analysisHigh omega-6 content may promote inflammation and imbalance omega-3 to omega-6 ratios in the diet.
from the analysis of Dan D pak Cashews · echoed in 1 other analysisHigh omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess. The refining process can introduce harmful trans fats.
from the analysis of PAM Butter Cooking SprayHigh omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess. Processing methods may involve chemical solvents.
from the analysis of Country Crock PLANT BUTTER WITH AVOCADO OIL 79% PLANT-BASED OIL SPREADMore from Scout's analyses
Canola oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which may promote inflammation when consumed in excess. It is heavily processed and often refined using chemical solvents. Its use is discouraged due to potential health concerns.
from the analysis of Fiber One 70 Calorie Brownies Chocolate Fudge Snack BarsCanola oil is a refined seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids. It is often highly processed and may contain trans fats. Its high omega-6 content can contribute to inflammation when consumed in excess.
from the analysis of Catalina Crunch Cheddar Protein Snack Mix - 5.25 ozRefined seed oil high in pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids. Industrially extracted using chemical solvents and deodorized at high temperatures. One of three interchangeable seed oils the manufacturer rotates based on cost.
from the analysis of Sensible Portions Garden Veggie Straws Sea SaltAll 46 products with Canola Oil
+ 22 more products in the Scout app
Where Canola Oil shows up
- Salty Snacks 9 products
- Snack Bars 6 products
- Cooking Oils 5 products
- Granola 4 products
- Protein Bars 4 products
- Crackers 4 products
Seed oils at restaurant chains
Scout checks chain menus for seed oils like this one: of 5,312 food items at 64 chains, 20% list none in their published ingredient statements. See how every chain compares or get the data.
Higher-scoring picks without Canola Oil
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Canola Oil, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.