Different Foods Questions and Facts
Has canola oil been banned in Europe?
Concerns Over Canola Oil in the European Union
Erucic Acid in Canola Oil:
- Health Risks: Erucic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid found in rapeseed oil (from which canola oil is derived), is linked to serious health concerns. High consumption may cause cardiac lipidosis, a condition where fat accumulates on the heart muscle, impairing cardiac function. It is also associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.
- EU Scrutiny: Due to these risks, some European nations consider canola oil potentially hazardous. To mitigate these concerns, genetically modified canola plants have been developed to lower erucic acid levels.
Healthier Alternatives:
- Olive and Coconut Oils: These oils offer nutritional benefits and are often considered healthier alternatives to traditional cooking oils like rapeseed or sunflower oil.
Last updated: Sep 02, 2024 12:03 PM