Partially Hydrogenated Oils is permitted with restrictions and maximum levels in Canada: declare as "partially hydrogenated [source] oil" in the ingredient list.
Partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) are industrially hardened liquid oils and were the main dietary source of artificial trans fats in margarines, shortenings, and fried foods. In Canada, Partially Hydrogenated Oils is regulated under FDR & Safe Food for Canadians Regulations as a food fat. Health Canada set a 2% industrial trans fat limit on vegetable oils and soft margarines in 2018. Partially hydrogenated oils producing trans fats above this limit are restricted. Must declare if used.
LabelGuard scans your label for Partially Hydrogenated Oils and all its common names (PHO, Partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, Partially hydrogenated soybean oil, Shortening) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under Canada rules.
Start Your Compliance CheckPartially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) are industrially hardened liquid oils and were the main dietary source of artificial trans fats in margarines, shortenings, and fried foods. It commonly appears in: Pre-2018 fried foods, Some baked goods, Non-dairy creamers, Some margarine, Commercial frying oils.
Artificial trans fats raise LDL cholesterol and cardiovascular risk, with no known safe intake. The FDA revoked GRAS status in 2015 and PHOs have been out of the US food supply since compliance dates in 2018–2020; the EU caps industrial trans fat at 2 g per 100 g of fat (2021), and the WHO has called for global elimination.
Declare as "partially hydrogenated [source] oil" in the ingredient list. Health Canada set a 2% industrial trans fat limit on vegetable oils and soft margarines in 2018. Partially hydrogenated oils producing trans fats above this limit are restricted. Must declare if used.
Partially Hydrogenated Oils may appear under the following names: PHO, Partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, Partially hydrogenated soybean oil, Shortening, Hardened vegetable oil. Common hidden sources include: Pre-2018 fried foods, Some baked goods, Non-dairy creamers, Some margarine, Commercial frying oils.
Banned in: US. Restricted with maximum levels in: EU, UK, Canada.
Last updated: 2026-07-20
Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.
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