Where and why do we use fractionated palm kernel oil?
Fractionated palm kernel oil is made by heating palm kernel oil and removing the liquid portion (or “fraction”) as it is cooled. This fractionation process creates a solid fat made up primarily of saturated fats with desirable properties from the standpoint of food manufacture. Fractionation vs. Hydrogenation Fractionation is different from the process of hydrogenation, which chemically alters oils. In this process, ‘trans fats’ are also created. Partially hydrogenated oils are solid and stable at room temperature and found in many current snack foods. However, the National Academy of Sciences has recently recommended that Americans consume as little trans fat as possible within a healthy diet. Although a heart-healthy diet should seek to limit both saturated and trans fats, current guidelines allow up to 10% of daily calories from saturated fat while there is no recommendation yet set for trans fat. This follows scientific evidence showing consumption of trans fat-containing foods inc