Soybean oil has become a staple in many people’s diets, with it being the most widely consumed oil in the United States and the second biggest source of vegetable oil worldwide. However, lab tests have revealed that eating a diet full of foods cooked with soybean oil can lead to an increased risk of being overweight, suffering from diabetes, and developing a fatty liver. Due to these concerns, a new genetically modified soy oil called Plenish was created, but unfortunately, it may not be the solution many are seeking.
Plensih: A Promising Alternative?
Plenish is a genetically modified soy oil produced by DuPont Pioneer, and it is marketed as having higher oleic acid levels and no harmful trans fats. Oleic acid, a fatty acid, helps keep blood sugar levels in check, which is a significant benefit for those with diabetes or at risk for the condition. However, experts like Frances Sladek, a professor of cell biology at the University of California, Riverside, caution that this new soy oil might not have gone through adequate testing to determine its long-term effects on health.
Genetic Modification: Increased Benefits, Unknown Risks
Genetic modification can indeed introduce new, beneficial traits into existing crops, but the products resulting from such modifications need thorough testing to understand their long-term health effects before being introduced to the market. Sladek and her colleagues decided to test the new soy oil using lab animals, comparing its effects with other diets that were either lower in fat or contained different types of oil.
The Results: Not All Oils Are Created Equal
The tests found that the lab animals who were given conventional soybean oil or the new GMO oil experienced more frequent instances of fatty liver and weight gain than their counterparts fed coconut oil. While the new GMO oil did seem to create slightly less body fat on the lab animals than conventional soy oil and the creatures did not develop insulin resistance, the results were not as promising as hoped.
Sladek notes, “The genetically modified soybean oil does seem to have fewer negative metabolic consequences than regular soybean oil in mice, but it may not necessarily be as healthy as olive oil, as has been assumed by its fatty acid composition, and it is certainly less healthy than coconut oil which is primarily saturated fat.”
Alternative Options
If you’re concerned about the potential health issues associated with soybean oil and its genetically modified counterpart, you may want to consider alternative oil options in your cooking. Olive oil, for instance, is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help decrease LDL cholesterol levels while increasing HDL cholesterol. The Mayo Clinic also mentions that olive oil may have additional benefits by reducing blood clotting and lowering blood pressure.
Another popular alternative to soybean oil is coconut oil, which has gained a substantial following due to its high levels of saturated fat that are thought to have numerous health benefits. The medium-chain triglycerides found in coconut oil are linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, as they can help increase HDL cholesterol levels. Furthermore, coconut oil has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties, making it a multifaceted choice for a healthier diet, as reported by WebMD.
Choosing Wisely
When it comes to choosing the best oil for your needs, it’s important to consider the potential risks and benefits associated with each option. While genetically modified soy oil may have some improved qualities compared to conventional soybean oil, there may be better alternatives, such as olive oil or coconut oil, that offer more health benefits without the potential long-term risks. Ultimately, it’s essential to stay informed, weigh your options, and choose the oil that’s best suited for you and your family’s health needs.
