Ingredient · Updated
Palm Oil
Found in 53 productsSee all
365 Everyday Value, Whole Foods Market Organic Original Water Crackers 
Justin's CLASSIC PEANUT BUTTER 
Member's Mark CREAMY PEANUT BUTTER SPREAD 
Essential Baking San Francisco Style Sourdough, Artisan Bread 
Ghirardelli Caramel Milk Chocolate Candy SQUARES Bar - 4.8oz 
Power Crunch Protein Wafer Bar 
Grenade Oreo White Protein Bar 
Great Value 6" Flour Tortilla What is Palm Oil?
Palm oil is a type of vegetable oil extracted from the fruit of the oil palm tree, primarily Elaeis guineensis. It is a common ingredient in many processed foods due to its wide availability and low cost. The oil is typically obtained through pressing the fruit and then refining, bleaching, and deodorizing it to remove impurities and odor.
It is widely used in the food industry for frying and as a component in snacks, baked goods, and margarines, thanks to its ability to remain stable at high temperatures and its long shelf life. On the health front, palm oil has a relatively balanced composition of saturated and unsaturated fats. However, there are concerns about its high saturated fat content, which is linked to heart health issues.
When checking food labels, be aware that palm oil production has significant environmental impacts, such as deforestation and habitat destruction, prompting a push for the use of sustainably sourced palm oil.
Commonly found in: Snack foods, Baked goods, Margarines, Confectionery, Instant noodles
What to watch
- High in saturated fats, which can negatively impact heart health if consumed in excess.
- Linked to significant environmental concerns, including deforestation and loss of biodiversity.
Palm oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by the FDA.
Scientific research on palm oil consumption shows mixed results; some studies point to heart health risks due to high saturated fats, while other investigations highlight neutral effects when used in moderation.
Palm oil is plant-derived and typically considered vegan, but ethical concerns about its production practice may affect its acceptance among some vegans.
Scout's take
Palm oil is a common cooking oil that is high in saturated fats, which can raise cholesterol levels. Its production is also associated with environmental concerns. It is used for its stability and texture in processed foods.
The case against
High saturated fat content may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess. Environmental concerns due to deforestation and habitat destruction.
from the analysis of Justin's CLASSIC PEANUT BUTTER · echoed in 5 other analysesHigh saturated fat content may increase cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease.
from the analysis of Tate's Bake Shop Soft Baked Double Chocolate Chip Cookies · echoed in 5 other analysesHigh in saturated fats, which may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.
from the analysis of Good & Gather Mini Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels · echoed in 2 other analysesHigh in saturated fats, potentially raising cholesterol levels and increasing heart disease risk.
from the analysis of NABISCO RITZ CRACKERS-SINGLE SERVE SANDWICHES PEANUT BUTTER 1X3 OZ · echoed in 1 other analysisHigh intake may increase the risk of heart disease and contribute to deforestation.
from the analysis of Ghirardelli Caramel Milk Chocolate Candy SQUARES Bar - 4.8oz · echoed in 1 other analysisThe case for
Provides a stable cooking fat with a long shelf life but limited nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Sour Strips Rainbow Candy · echoed in 4 other analysesProvides a stable fat source for cooking and food production.
from the analysis of Ghirardelli Caramel Milk Chocolate Candy SQUARES Bar - 4.8oz · echoed in 4 other analysesStable at high temperatures, making it suitable for cooking and baking.
from the analysis of Good & Gather Mini Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels · echoed in 3 other analysesProvides a stable fat source that enhances texture and shelf life.
from the analysis of Essential Baking San Francisco Style Sourdough, Artisan Bread · echoed in 1 other analysisProvides a stable fat source that can enhance the texture of food products. Contains some vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties.
from the analysis of Justin's CLASSIC PEANUT BUTTERMore from Scout's analyses
Refined palm oil, high in saturated fat. The popping oil in every AMC microwave bag.
from the analysis of AMC Theatres Classic Butter Microwave PopcornPalm oil is often criticized for its environmental impact and high saturated fat content. It is used to improve texture and shelf life in food products. The refining process can strip away beneficial nutrients, leaving a less nutritious oil.
from the analysis of Justin's CLASSIC PEANUT BUTTERIndustrially processed tropical oil, high saturated fat, typically hexane-extracted. Associated with inflammatory effects and significant environmental/deforestation concerns.
from the analysis of Tootsie Fruit Chew LimeAll 53 products with Palm Oil
+ 29 more products in the Scout app
Where Palm Oil shows up
- Salty Snacks 9 products
- Candy 9 products
- Cookies 8 products
- Crackers 4 products
- Ice Cream 4 products
- Nut Butters 3 products
Higher-scoring picks without Palm Oil
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Palm Oil, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.