In addition to enhancing flavor, fats and oils perform many functional duties—providing texture, particle suspension, mouthfeel, stability and shelf life in products such as sauces, dressings, bars and dairy goods. However, not all fats and oils are created equal, and today’s consumers are looking for products they can feel good about putting into their bodies. Brands are delivering innovative products made with healthy fats and oils that don’t compromise taste or function.

Takeaways for Your Business

• Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are generally associated with positive health benefits.
• Olive oil is the top lipid consumers look for when purchasing processed foods.
• The removal of trans fats and PHOs has caused formulation challenges for categories like baked goods.