Hydrogenated Oil

It is a type of fat that food manufacturers use as a preservative.

 *Reason to add Hydrogenated Oil to food:* 

Keep foods fresher for longer

Enhancing test, texture and flavourflavour.

 Cutting cost.

            It is a process where manufacturers add hydrogen to a liquid fat, such as vegetable oil, to turn it into a solid fat at room temperature.

There are two types of Hydrogenated oil: 

(1) Partially Hydrogenated Oil ( Trans Fat) 

(2) Fully Hydrogenated Oil

Hydrogenated oil can be produced with low–trans fatty acid content using a platinum catalyst. These catalysts are highly reactive and the reaction can be carried out at very low temperatures compared to a nickel catalyst. Platinum catalyst can come with carriers (also called support), such as carbon or aluminum.

Hydrogenated oil, particularly partially hydrogenated oil, has a number of potential side effects that can negatively affect a person’s health.

It can raise LDL level and reduce HDL level.

It can increase risk of heart diseases, stroke, type 2 DM and IR.

        Since hydrogenated oil is found in highly processed foods, a person should avoid hydrogenated oil as much as possible.