Palm Kernel Oil vs.
Palm Fruit Oil

It’s what is inside that counts

We often get questions about the palm fruit oil in Smart Balance® spreads, and we are happy to explain the difference between palm fruit oil and palm kernel oil, something we never use in any of our products. Palm fruit oil comes from the fleshy, orange part of the fruit, and is rich in monounsaturates or “good” fats. Palm fruit oil is an important part of Smart Balance’s oil blend that can support healthy cholesterol levels already within the normal range.

Palm kernel oil, on the other hand, comes from the innermost kernel, or nut-like core, of the plant. The kernel contains highly saturated fats that can clog arteries. Studies indicate that highly saturated fats like palm kernel oil are worse for you than the dietary cholesterol that occurs in foods. So instead of eating margarines or spreads with palm kernel oil, use great-tasting, creamy-smooth Smart Balance® buttery spreads and butter blend sticks.