Ingredient · Updated
peanut and/or cottonseed oil
Found in 1 product
What is peanut and/or cottonseed oil?
Peanut and/or cottonseed oil is a type of vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the respective plants. It is extracted through a pressing process and often further refined to remove impurities and improve its stability.
These oils are commonly used in food products for their ability to enhance flavor and texture, as well as their high smoke point which makes them suitable for frying and baking. Nutrition-wise, peanut oil is noted for its monounsaturated fat content, which is considered heart-healthy. However, both peanut and cottonseed oils are categorized as seed oils in Scout’s system, which rates them as very_bad.
When you see peanut and/or cottonseed oil on a label, it is important to consider that while these oils provide culinary benefits, the health impacts of consuming seed oils are debated. Therefore, personal dietary choices may guide usage.
Commonly found in: Frying oils, Salad dressings, Baked goods, Snack foods, Margarines
What to watch
- Consumption of seed oils has been linked in some research to inflammation due to high omega-6 fatty acid content.
- Cottonseed oil may contain gossypol, a naturally occurring toxin if not properly refined.
Benefits
- Peanut oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy.
Both oils are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food, though cottonseed oil must be properly refined to ensure safety.
Studies show mixed results on the health effects of seed oils; some research points to benefits while others highlight potential risks.
As plant-derived oils, they are considered suitable for vegan diets.
Sources: Overview of Cooking Oils · Impact of Dietary Fats on Health
Scout's take
This oil is highly processed and may contain unhealthy trans fats or additives, which can negatively impact health.
All 1 product with peanut and/or cottonseed oil
Where peanut and/or cottonseed oil shows up
- Nuts 1 product
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 peanut and/or cottonseed oil
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include peanut and/or cottonseed oil, scoring 80 or above.
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