Palm Oil vs. Other Cooking Oils: What You Need to Know

23rd May 2025

In the world of cooking oils, palm oil has become a topic of much debate and discussion. From supermarkets like Tesco stocking products containing palm oil to home cooks wondering about the benefits and drawbacks of this versatile oil, it’s important to get the facts straight. This comprehensive guide will explore palm oil, how it compares to other popular cooking oils, its benefits, and some crucial palm oil facts, especially in the context of the UK market.

What is Palm Oil?

Palm oil is a type of edible vegetable oil derived from the fruit of the oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis). It is widely used in cooking and food manufacturing worldwide due to its unique properties and cost-effectiveness. In the UK, palm oil can be found in many products, including those sold by major retailers like Tesco. Whether you're buying ready-made meals, baked goods, or even some skincare items, palm oil is likely in the mix.

Palm Oil in the UK: An Overview

In the UK, palm oil is a common ingredient and is often labeled as “palm oil UK” in product descriptions or supply chain information. Tesco, one of the largest supermarket chains in the country, uses palm oil in various food products but also emphasizes sustainable sourcing to reduce environmental impact. Consumers are increasingly aware of where their palm oil comes from and its environmental footprint, which is driving demand for certified sustainable palm oil.

Palm Oil for Cooking: Properties and Uses

Palm oil is valued in cooking for several reasons:

High Smoke Point: Palm oil has a smoke point of around 230°C (446°F), making it suitable for high-heat cooking methods like frying and sautéing.
Long Shelf Life: Due to its stability, palm oil does not spoil easily, making it excellent for processed foods and home storage.
Neutral Flavor: It has a mild taste that does not overpower dishes, which makes it versatile in various recipes.
Texture Enhancer: In baked goods and snacks, palm oil contributes to a desirable texture and mouthfeel.

Many home cooks and chefs in the UK use palm oil for cooking because of these qualities. It’s also a popular choice in commercial kitchens and food manufacturing due to its affordability and performance.

Comparing Palm Oil to Other Cooking Oils

When choosing a cooking oil, understanding the nutritional content and culinary properties is key. Here’s how palm oil compares to some common cooking oils:

1. Olive Oil vs. Palm Oil

Health: Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, known for heart health benefits. Palm oil contains a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats, with about 50% saturated fat, which is higher than olive oil.
Cooking: Olive oil has a lower smoke point (~190°C) than palm oil, making palm oil better for high-temperature frying.
Flavor: Olive oil has a distinct flavor, while palm oil is neutral.

2. Sunflower Oil vs. Palm Oil

Health: Sunflower oil is high in polyunsaturated fats, particularly omega-6 fatty acids, which need to be balanced with omega-3 intake.
Cooking: Sunflower oil has a high smoke point (~225°C), slightly less than palm oil but still good for frying.
Cost: Palm oil tends to be cheaper, which is why it's widely used in commercial food production.

3. Coconut Oil vs. Palm Oil

Health: Both oils are high in saturated fats, but coconut oil has a higher proportion of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which some studies suggest may have unique metabolic benefits.
Cooking: Coconut oil has a smoke point around 177°C (unrefined) to 232°C (refined). Palm oil is more neutral in flavor compared to coconut oil’s distinct taste.

4. Canola Oil vs. Palm Oil

Health: Canola oil is low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated fats, often seen as a heart-healthy choice.
Cooking: Canola oil has a smoke point of about 204°C, lower than palm oil but still suitable for frying.
Flavor: Canola oil has a neutral taste, similar to palm oil.

Palm Oil Benefits: What Makes It Popular?

Despite the controversies, palm oil has several benefits that keep it popular both in the UK and worldwide:

1. Nutritional Profile

Palm oil is a rich source of vitamin E (tocotrienols and tocopherols), which are powerful antioxidants. It also contains beta-carotene, the precursor of vitamin A, which gives red palm oil its distinctive color.

2. Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to other vegetable oils, palm oil is generally more affordable and yields more oil per hectare than other oil crops, making it an economically efficient choice for manufacturers.

3. Versatility

Palm oil’s stability and neutral flavor make it useful in a wide range of products, from cooking oils to margarine, baked goods, and even cosmetics.

4. Sustainability Efforts

Many palm oil producers and retailers in the UK, including Tesco, are committed to sustainable palm oil sourcing through certifications such as RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil). This helps reduce deforestation and supports better environmental practices.

Important Palm Oil Facts You Should Know

1. Global Production

Indonesia and Malaysia dominate global palm oil production, accounting for about 85-90% of the world’s supply. This concentration has led to concerns about deforestation and biodiversity loss in tropical regions.

2. Environmental Impact

Unsustainable palm oil farming has been linked to deforestation, habitat destruction, and greenhouse gas emissions. However, sustainable palm oil initiatives aim to minimize these impacts by enforcing responsible land use and conservation measures.

3. Economic Importance

Palm oil farming supports millions of livelihoods globally. In the UK, companies like Tesco source palm oil responsibly to balance economic benefits with environmental concerns.

4. Labeling and Transparency

Consumers in the UK are increasingly interested in the origins of palm oil. Tesco and other retailers have improved transparency by labeling products with “sustainable palm oil” and providing traceability information.

Should You Use Palm Oil for Cooking?

Choosing palm oil for cooking depends on your priorities:

For high-heat cooking: Palm oil is an excellent choice due to its stability.
For health-conscious diets: Consider balancing palm oil intake with oils rich in unsaturated fats like olive or canola oil.
For environmental concerns: Look for products labeled with certified sustainable palm oil to reduce ecological impact.
For budget-conscious shoppers: Palm oil provides a cost-effective option without compromising cooking quality.

How Tesco Supports Sustainable Palm Oil in the UK

Tesco has taken significant steps to source palm oil responsibly. They work with suppliers who adhere to the RSPO standards and have committed to zero deforestation in their palm oil supply chain. Tesco’s palm oil UK strategy involves:

Sourcing certified sustainable palm oil
Supporting smallholder farmers to adopt better practices
Promoting consumer awareness through clear product labeling

By choosing products with responsibly sourced palm oil, shoppers can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Final Thoughts: Palm Oil vs. Other Cooking Oils

Palm oil holds a unique position in the cooking oil market due to its versatility, affordability, and cooking properties. While concerns about sustainability and health persist, ongoing efforts in the UK and globally aim to improve the industry. Understanding palm oil facts, its benefits, and how it compares to other oils helps consumers make informed choices.

If you’re in the UK and wondering about palm oil Tesco offers or looking for palm oil for cooking, aim to select products with sustainable certifications. This ensures you enjoy the benefits of palm oil while supporting environmentally and socially responsible practices.

FAQ: Palm Oil and Cooking Oils

Q1: Is palm oil healthy to cook with?
Palm oil contains saturated fats but also offers antioxidants. It’s best used in moderation alongside oils rich in unsaturated fats.

Q2: Can I find sustainable palm oil products in the UK?
Yes. Major retailers like Tesco stock products with sustainably sourced palm oil.

Q3: What are some palm oil facts I should know?
Palm oil is widely used globally, especially in processed foods, but its production has environmental concerns that are being addressed through certification programs.

Q4: How does palm oil compare to olive oil?
Olive oil is generally considered healthier due to higher monounsaturated fats, but palm oil has a higher smoke point and longer shelf life.