Saturated fatty acids in vegetable oils. Council on Scientific Affairs
Concern has been expressed about the "atherogenicity" of coconut and/or
palm oil in food products. Saturated fatty acids are found primarily in
animal products and in "tropical oils" (coconut, palm, and palm kernel
oils). Composition of the total diet over an extended period determines
nutritional status and contribution to health. Specific foods and/or food
ingredients need to be evaluated within the context of a person's total
dietary pattern over time. Persons attempting to limit saturated fatty acid
intake should be aware of the high content of saturated fatty acids in
tropical oils. The American Medical Association is on record as supporting
fatty acid labeling when cholesterol content is declared and cholesterol
labeling when fatty acid content is declared. The American Medical
Association has supported, and continues to support, voluntary efforts to
increase public awareness of the composition and nutritional value of
foods.
