Ingredient · Updated
Fully Hydrogenated Coconut Oil
Found in 1 product
What is Fully Hydrogenated Coconut Oil?
Fully hydrogenated coconut oil is made by processing coconut oil with hydrogen, which saturates the oil and transforms it into a hard, solid fat. Unlike partially hydrogenated oils, it does not contain trans fats, which are often considered unhealthy.
This oil is used to improve texture and extend shelf life in various products. While fully hydrogenated oils have eliminated trans fats, they are still high in saturated fats, which could impact heart health if consumed in large amounts, though the evidence on their health effects is mixed and context-dependent.
When you see fully hydrogenated coconut oil on a label, it typically indicates its use for solidifying or stabilizing certain products without the presence of trans fats that are associated with partially hydrogenated oils.
Commonly found in: ice cream, baked goods, margarine, confectionery, non-dairy creamers
What to watch
- Contains high levels of saturated fats, which can impact heart health if consumed excessively.
Benefits
- Does not contain trans fats, which are linked to increased heart disease risk.
Fully hydrogenated oils are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used appropriately.
While it eliminates trans fats, the high saturated fat content may still pose health risks if consumed in large quantities.
Derived from coconut oil and suitable for a vegan diet as it contains no animal products.
Sources: Chemistry of fats and oils - Fatty acid composition of hydrogenated oils
Scout's take
Fully hydrogenated coconut oil is processed to be solid at room temperature, removing trans fats but still being highly processed. It lacks the beneficial medium-chain triglycerides found in virgin coconut oil. The processing reduces its nutritional value.
The case against
May contribute to unhealthy fat intake if consumed in large amounts.
from the analysis of Turkey Hill Ice Cream Choco Mint Chip Ice Cream - 1.44 qtAll 1 product with Fully Hydrogenated Coconut Oil
Where Fully Hydrogenated Coconut Oil shows up
- Ice Cream 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Fully Hydrogenated Coconut Oil
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Fully Hydrogenated Coconut Oil, scoring 80 or above.
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