Coconut oil

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Coconut oil healthy?

Coconut oil scores 83/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. Coconut oil is a minimally processed culinary ingredient, particularly when virgin or cold-pressed, which retains beneficial compounds like medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).

How processed is Coconut oil?

Coconut oil is NOVA Group 2: Processed Culinary Ingredients.

Which ingredients drive Coconut oil's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Coconut Oil counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Coconut oil

H-E-B
83 Good

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by H-E-B
Category Cooking Oils
Summary

Coconut oil is a minimally processed culinary ingredient, particularly when virgin or cold-pressed, which retains beneficial compounds like medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). It is less likely to promote inflammation compared to seed oils due to its saturated fat content. The simplicity of having a single ingredient and the lack of harmful additives contribute to its high rating.

Key ingredients 1

Coconut Oil
Good

Coconut oil is a source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which are metabolized differently than other fats, potentially providing quick energy. It is minimally processed, especially when virgin or cold-pressed, retaining beneficial compounds. Compared to seed oils, coconut oil is less likely to promote inflammation due to its saturated fat content.

Risks

Excessive consumption of saturated fats may contribute to increased cholesterol levels in some individuals.

Benefits

Contains medium-chain triglycerides that may support energy metabolism and weight management. It also has antimicrobial properties due to lauric acid content.

See more about Coconut Oil →

Processing

Group 2 · Culinary ingredients

Processed Culinary Ingredients

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Cooking Oils