Ingredient
Soybean Oil
What is Soybean Oil?
Soybean oil is a type of vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the soybean plant. It is one of the most widely used cooking oils and is commonly found in processed foods.
Soybean oil is used for its emulsification properties, which help blend ingredients, and its ability to withstand high cooking temperatures. However, it is high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can disrupt the balance of omega-3 and omega-6 in the diet.
When you see soybean oil on a label, it's important to be aware of its processing methods, which often include high heat and chemical solvents, potentially affecting its nutritional quality.
Commonly found in: snack foods, dressings, margarine, baked goods, processed foods
What to watch
- High in omega-6 fatty acids, which may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
- Typically extracted using heat and solvents, which can reduce nutritional quality.
Soybean oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food in the United States.
Research suggests mixed effects; while some studies highlight health concerns related to its fatty acid profile, others focus on its essential fatty acid contributions.
Soybean oil is plant-derived and considered vegan-friendly.
Sources: GRAS Substances (SCOGS) Database
Scout's take
Inflammatory seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids. Heavily processed and refined.
The case against
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
from the analysis of Catalina Crunch Peanut Butter Granola · echoed in 4 other analysesHigh omega-6 content may promote inflammation and is linked to various chronic diseases.
from the analysis of Nature's Own HONEY WHEAT ENRICHED BREAD · echoed in 2 other analysesHigh omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess. The extraction process can introduce harmful residues and degrade beneficial compounds.
from the analysis of Crisco Pure Vegetable OilMore from Scout's analyses
Soybean oil is highly processed and often contains unhealthy trans fats or omega-6 fatty acids, which can be detrimental if consumed in excess.
from the analysis of Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix OriginalSoybean oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. It is highly processed and often extracted using chemical solvents. This oil is considered unhealthy due to its processing and fatty acid profile.
from the analysis of Minute CHICKEN FLAVORED RICE WITH A SAVORY SEASONING BLENDSoybean 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. Its high omega-6 content can disrupt the omega-3 to omega-6 balance in the diet.
from the analysis of Nature's Own HONEY WHEAT ENRICHED BREADFound in 48 products
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