Chapter 1
How seed oils became the talk of the town
Chapter 2
New laws on the back of your bottle
Chapter 3
The science under the microscope
Chapter 4
Becoming an ingredient detective at home
Ch 1 · How seed oils became the talk of the town
alicecooks New industrial chemical extraction methods and lower costs drove a massive shift away from traditional animal fats like lard and butter.
Quiz
Which plant oil was primarily used to make the original 1911 formulation of Crisco shortening?
Quiz
In 1911, which brand introduced the first hydrogenated vegetable oil shortening made from cottonseed?
alicecooks The 2026 label debate demands transparency for these cheap cooking ingredients
Quiz
What chemical solvent is most commonly used in industrial manufacturing to extract oil from seeds like soybeans?
Quiz
Which of the following is included in the social media grouping known as the 'Hateful Eight' seed oils?
Fun Fact
Soap to shortening: Procter & Gamble originally sought to use cottonseed oil for soap, but accidentally invented Crisco shortening instead!
Quiz
What is the term for clarified butter that has been simmered to remove water and milk solids, popular in traditional Indian cooking?
Glossary
seed oil (noun)
An edible vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of various plants, typically used in cooking. In 2026, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sparked widespread debate by urging consumers to favor beef tallow instead.
An edible vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of various plants, typically used in cooking. In 2026, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sparked widespread debate by urging consumers to favor beef tallow instead.
alicecooks Seed Oil Food Labels
The label says 'and/or' / they swap the oils / to keep costs low
Quiz
Why do industrial food manufacturers prefer refined seed oils over unrefined oils like extra virgin olive oil?
Quiz
Approximately what percentage of packaged foods in typical US supermarkets contain soybean or canola oil?