Ingredient · Updated
Palm Fruit Oil
Found in 4 products
What is Palm Fruit Oil?
Palm Fruit Oil is derived from the flesh of the palm fruit, primarily the Elaeis guineensis plant. The oil is extracted through a pressing process and is known for its reddish color due to high beta-carotene content, which may be reduced during refining.
Palm Fruit Oil is commonly used in cooking and baking due to its relatively high smoke point and longer shelf life. It is often chosen for its neutral taste and texture in food products. Health discussions around Palm Fruit Oil frequently focus on its high saturated fat content, and while some studies have raised concerns regarding heart health, the evidence is mixed.
When you see Palm Fruit Oil on a label, it's worth noting its environmental impact. Palm oil production can lead to deforestation and habitat loss if not sustainably sourced.
Commonly found in: Cookies, Margarines, Snack Foods, Baked Goods, Processed Foods
What to watch
- High in saturated fats, which some studies associate with increased heart disease risk.
- Concerns about environmental impact due to unsustainable production practices.
Benefits
- High in antioxidants such as tocotrienols and beta-carotene.
Palm Fruit Oil is generally regarded as safe (GRAS) for use in food products in the US.
While high in saturated fats, some studies show potential benefits from its beta-carotene and tocotrienols; findings are mixed on heart health impacts.
Palm Fruit Oil is plant-derived and considered vegan, though ethical concerns about sustainable sourcing may affect personal choices.
Sources: Palm Oil and Human Health
Scout's take
Palm fruit oil is a saturated fat that is stable at high temperatures. It is often criticized for environmental concerns related to deforestation. However, it does not contain trans fats and is considered stable for cooking.
The case against
Environmental concerns due to deforestation and habitat destruction. High saturated fat content may be a concern for heart health if consumed in excess.
from the analysis of Country Crock PLANT BUTTER WITH AVOCADO OIL 79% PLANT-BASED OIL SPREADThe case for
Stable at high temperatures and does not contain trans fats, making it suitable for cooking.
from the analysis of Country Crock PLANT BUTTER WITH AVOCADO OIL 79% PLANT-BASED OIL SPREADMore from Scout's analyses
Palm fruit oil is associated with environmental concerns and contains unhealthy fats, making it a less desirable ingredient.
from the analysis of Made Good Cookies & Creme Granola BarA heavily processed oil high in saturated fats, often subject to environmental concerns regarding sustainable sourcing.
from the analysis of Rip Van Vanilla WafersInflammatory saturated fat linked to cardiovascular concerns.
from the analysis of Lenny & Larry's Complete Cookie Chocolate ChipAll 4 products with Palm Fruit Oil
Where Palm Fruit Oil shows up
- Cookies 2 products
- Cooking Oils 1 product
- Protein Bars 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Palm Fruit Oil
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Palm Fruit Oil, scoring 80 or above.
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