What are hydrogenated oils and why are they bad?
Hydrogenation is the process of forcing hydrogen atoms to combine with unsaturated fatty acids. The process changes liquid vegetable oils into a more solid form. Hydrogenated oil resists rancidity and extends the shelf life of various foods, including cakes, cookies, crackers and breakfast cereals. Unfortunately this process produces trans fatty acids and there is a growing body of evidence that says that trans fats are dangerous to humans. Trans fat raises the “bad” LDL blood cholesterol levels, while lowering the “good” HDL blood cholesterol in your body. This, of course, increases the risk of coronary heart disease. Trans fatty acids are also found in all hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, including margarine and shortening. Consumers can check the ingredient list for hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils. At Barbara’s we NEVER use hydrogenated oil in our products, relying instead on naturally extracted expeller pressed oils, small batch processes and high
