Could it cause cancer too?

In addition, palm oil has also been linked to an increased cancer risk when processed at high temperatures – and this happens when it’s added to food. according to the European Food Safety authority (EFSA), which carried out a study on mice and rats, the elevated threat is due to contaminants. when processed, palm oil causes glycidyl fatty acid ester (GES) to form. Then, when these are digested, GES break down and release glycidol – a compound known for its carcinogenic effects in animals and its suspected harm to humans. while research on palm oil and its effect on humans is in its early stages, experts still recommend lowering consumption. ‘Products with palm oil can be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet,’ says Dr Yeates. ‘However, the problem is that it tends to be in processed or highly fatty products, which can increase your risk of up to 13 cancers, according to the national Cancer Institute.’