Palm oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fruit of oil palm trees. It is the most widely produced vegetable oil in the world, used in snack foods, baked goods, cereals, infant formula, and cosmetics for its stability, texture, and low cost.
Palm oil is not primarily a health flag but an environmental and transparency concern. It is associated with massive tropical deforestation, habitat destruction (orangutan and tiger habitat loss), and carbon emissions. Some studies also link palm oil consumption to elevated LDL cholesterol compared to other plant oils.
Not a high individual health risk. Environmental impact is the primary concern. Infants consuming palm oil-containing formula may have reduced fat and calcium absorption.
| Country | Status |
|---|---|
| United States | Permitted. No restrictions. |
| European Union | Permitted. EFSA has set limits on glycidyl ester contaminants in refined palm oil. |
| Canada | Permitted. |
| Australia | Permitted. |