THE Consumer Choice Centre (CCC), a non-profit consumer advocacy group, has shed some light on the health benefits of palm oil and its valuable role in enhancing the nutritional quality of food products.
Despite misconceptions surrounding its impact on health, the CCC stressed that palm oil offers numerous benefits and serves as a versatile and essential ingredient in Malaysia’s food industry.
The CCC further pointed out that palm oil is rich in tocotrienols – a form of vitamin E with powerful antioxidant properties which help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
A study by the Nutrition Society Malaysia shows that palm oil contains Vitamin E known as tocols that comprised tocopherols and tocotrienols as well as carotenoids which are important components for healthy nutrition which supports heart heath, reduces inflammation and enhances cognitive function, among other benefits.
“We want to dispel the misconceptions surrounding palm oil and highlight its positive contributions to health and nutrition,” commented CCC representative Tarmizi Anuwar.
“Contrary to popular belief, palm oil is not harmful when consumed as part of a balanced diet. In fact, its nutritional profile makes it a valuable addition to food products.”
Moreover, palm oil is cholesterol-free and contains a balanced ratio of saturated, monosaturated and polyunsaturated fats, thus making it a suitable option for individuals seeking healthy alternatives to hydrogenated oils and trans-fat, according to CCC.
Added Tarmizi: “Palm oil is widely used in food products due to its stability and versatility, making it an ideal ingredient for cooking, baking and food processing. Its ability to withstand high temperatures without breaking down or producing harmful by-products makes it a preferred choice for food manufacturers.”
Despite persistent misinformation, scientific evidence supports the safety and nutritional benefits of palm oil consumption.
By debunking misconceptions and promoting factual information, CCC aims to empower consumers to make informed choices about their dietary habits and food preferences. – April 29, 2024
