CRISCO PEANUT OIL receives a FoodScore of 22/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat content.
CRISCO PEANUT OIL has a FoodScore of 22/100, indicating it should be avoided.
It contains 100g of total fat per 100g, with 17.93g of saturated fat.
This product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed.
Compared to generic peanut oil, this SKU includes additional additives for preservation and anti-foaming.
Use in small quantities for specific cooking applications where its flavor profile is desired.
Scores -10 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 22
CRISCO PEANUT OIL scores 22 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its nutritional profile and processing. Per 100g, it contains 100g of total fat, with a significant 17.93g of saturated fat, which contributes a substantial penalty to its FoodScore. The product is also classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, incurring a 10-point penalty. Furthermore, as a concentrated ultra-processed fat, it receives an additional 3-point penalty. While it contains no protein, fiber, added sugar, or sodium, and lacks any significant micronutrients, its high fat content, particularly saturated fat, and its processing level are the primary drivers of its low score. The inclusion of additives like TBHQ and citric acid as antioxidants, and dimethyl silicone for anti-foaming, further solidifies its ultra-processed classification. Compared to a generic, unbranded peanut oil, this CRISCO product includes these additional processing aids.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in crisco peanut oil actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Monounsaturated and Polyunsaturated Fats
While high in total fat, peanut oil contains a significant proportion of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These types of fats, when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet, are generally considered more beneficial for cardiovascular health than saturated fats. Using this oil in small amounts can contribute to your intake of these fats, provided overall dietary fat intake remains within recommended limits. It's important to balance these fats with other nutrient-dense foods.
High Smoke Point for Cooking
CRISCO PEANUT OIL has a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking methods that require high heat, such as frying and stir-frying. This characteristic means the oil can be heated to higher temperatures before it starts to break down and produce smoke, which can impart undesirable flavors and potentially harmful compounds. For specific culinary applications where high heat is essential, this property can be advantageous, helping to achieve desired textures and browning in foods without burning the oil.
Flavor Neutrality in Certain Applications
Peanut oil offers a relatively neutral flavor profile compared to some other oils, which can be beneficial in cooking where the oil's taste should not overpower the ingredients. This allows the natural flavors of the food being cooked to stand out. While it does have a subtle nutty aroma, it is often mild enough for general cooking, making it a versatile option for various dishes, especially those where a strong olive oil or butter flavor would be inappropriate. This neutrality can be useful for baking or light sautéing.
CRISCO PEANUT OIL receives a FoodScore of 22/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat content.
How to eat it
CRISCO PEANUT OIL is typically used as a cooking fat, especially for high-heat applications like deep-frying, stir-frying, and sautéing. Its neutral flavor and high smoke point make it popular for these uses. A common portion size is 1 tablespoon, but it's easy to exceed this when frying, leading to higher calorie and fat intake.
Use CRISCO PEANUT OIL sparingly for high-heat cooking methods like stir-frying or deep-frying, where its high smoke point is beneficial.
Consider blending it with other oils that offer a more diverse fatty acid profile, such as olive oil or avocado oil, for general cooking needs.
Measure portions carefully, as even small amounts of oil contribute significantly to calorie and fat intake.
For salad dressings or low-heat cooking, opt for oils with a more favorable nutritional profile, such as extra virgin olive oil, to maximize nutrient intake.
Things to keep in mind
CRISCO PEANUT OIL contains dimethyl silicone as an anti-foaming agent and TBHQ and citric acid as antioxidants. While these additives are generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies in the amounts typically consumed, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of foods containing such processing aids. The product is derived from peanuts, which are a common allergen. Individuals with peanut allergies should strictly avoid this product due to the inherent risk of an allergic reaction. There are no specific interactions or populations that need to be particularly cautious beyond those with peanut allergies or those monitoring their intake of ultra-processed foods.
CRISCO PEANUT OIL has a FoodScore of 22/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' food. This is primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high content of saturated fat (17.93g per 100g). While it contains beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, its overall nutritional profile and processing level suggest it should be consumed sparingly.
How does CRISCO PEANUT OIL compare to generic peanut oil?
CRISCO PEANUT OIL is similar to generic peanut oil in its basic fat profile and high smoke point. However, the CRISCO product includes additional ingredients like TBHQ, citric acid, and dimethyl silicone, which are processing aids. Generic unbranded peanut oil typically contains only peanut oil, making it a less processed option, though still high in fat.
What is TBHQ, and why is it in CRISCO PEANUT OIL?
TBHQ (tertiary butylhydroquinone) is an antioxidant added to CRISCO PEANUT OIL to help prevent the oil from going rancid and extending its shelf life. It works by slowing down the oxidation process of fats. While approved for use in food by regulatory bodies, it is an artificial additive that contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a recommended portion size for CRISCO PEANUT OIL?
A recommended portion size for CRISCO PEANUT OIL is 1 tablespoon. This amount contributes significantly to your daily fat and calorie intake. Given its high fat content, it's important to measure accurately and use it in moderation, especially if you are managing your weight or fat intake.
Can CRISCO PEANUT OIL be used for baking?
Yes, CRISCO PEANUT OIL can be used for baking, particularly in recipes where a neutral-flavored oil is desired and its high smoke point isn't the primary concern. However, for baking, other oils like canola oil or vegetable oil are often used interchangeably, and some recipes may benefit from the specific fat profile of butter or shortening for texture.
How does CRISCO PEANUT OIL compare to other cooking oils like Wesson Vegetable Oil?
CRISCO PEANUT OIL is distinct from Wesson Vegetable Oil (which is typically soybean oil or a blend) in its primary fat source and flavor profile. Both are refined oils and often used for high-heat cooking. However, peanut oil has a slightly nutty flavor and a higher smoke point than many generic vegetable oils. Both are considered ultra-processed and should be used in moderation due to their high fat content.