Is Palm Kernel Oil Bad for You?
Palm kernel oil has a bad reputation amongst its fellow saturated fats. Palm kernel oil, in contrast to the negative claims held against it, is a relatively healthy natural oil that is fit for moderated use in any diet.
Source
Palm kernel oil is derived from the palm tree, but differs from palm oil in that it is extracted from the palm tree's fruit seeds. Palm kernel oil is similar to palm oil, but contains a higher level of saturated fat. Palm kernel oil has similar fatty acid components as that of coconut oil.
Features
Palm kernel oil typically is 80 to 90 percent saturated fat, with small traces of acids that contribute to protection against certain fungus and bacteria. Palm kernel oil is considered stable at room temperature, and is safely stored at this temperature for several months.
Reputation
Palm kernel oil has gained a bad reputation due to press on the side of the vegetable oil industry that makes use of vegetable waste products from corn, soybean and cotton crops. Palm kernel oil is considered a tropical oil, which is usually regarded with negativity due to the higher levels of saturated fats in this type of oil.
Benefits
Palm kernel oil is beneficial for those with nut allergies because it does not contain any of the allergen proteins which affect those who are allergic to nuts. Palm kernel oil is also cholesterol free, and is a natural source of vitamin E.
Negatives
Palm kernel oil is often hydrogenated, which converts it into a trans fat, as in the case of chocolate-making. Trans fats are considered to be unhealthy due to its negative effect on cholesterol levels. Also, palm kernel oil contains a high level of fat saturation, which can be unhealthy if consumed in large amounts.
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