Cottonseed Oil

Cottonseed oil is commonly used in processed foods because of its ability to extend shelf life. Some of these products include:

• potato chips
• cookies and crackers
• margarine
• mayonnaise
• salad dressing

It’s also a popular ingredient for baking. It provides a solid fat index for shortening, making for baked goods that’re moist and chewy. It also helps achieve a creamy consistency in icing and whipped toppings.

Cottonseed oil is also used by many fast food chains for deep frying because it enhances the flavor of food instead of masking it. It’s also less expensive than other vegetable oils.

Cottonseed oil has many nonfood uses, too. In the 1800s, cottonseed oil was primarily used in oil lamps and to make candles. Nowadays, it’s used in insecticides, laundry detergents, and cosmetics.

Cottonseed oil may have economic benefits, but the saturated fat content makes it an unhealthy choice in comparison to other vegetable oils.