Why Palm Oil Fills Packaged Foods—and How Safe Is It?

Palm oil comes from the fruit of oil palm trees.

Food companies use it because it is inexpensive and helps snacks stay fresh for a long time.

It has a mild taste and can make foods crispy, fluffy, or creamy.

It also handles high cooking temperatures well.

Palm oil is allowed in packaged foods under India’s food-safety rules.

However, it contains a lot of saturated fat, which can raise “bad” cholesterol when eaten too often.

Eating many packaged foods can also add too much sugar, salt, and calories to a person’s diet.

Experts suggest eating palm-oil-containing foods occasionally and choosing healthier unsaturated fats when possible.

One expert said there is no clear evidence that palm oil itself directly causes cancer.