WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER scores 22/100 (Avoid) due to its high saturated fat content and ultra-processed nature, offering minimal nutritional value.
FoodScore: 22/100 (Avoid) for WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER.
Contains 64.29g of saturated fat per 100g, a significant amount.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides 0g protein, 0g fiber, and 0% DV for most micronutrients.
Use sparingly in recipes where a solid fat is essential for texture.
Scores -11 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 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
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (64.3g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 22
WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER receives a FoodScore of 22 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its nutritional profile, which is high in fat and devoid of beneficial nutrients. Per 100g, this product contains 100g of total fat, with a substantial 64.29g being saturated fat, contributing significantly to its low score. The product is also classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a penalty. Specifically, it is penalized for being a concentrated ultra-processed fat. Ingredients like palm oil and coconut oil are the primary sources of its high fat content. Unlike a generic dairy equivalent such as butter, which might offer some trace vitamins or minerals, this shortening provides 0g of protein, 0g of fiber, and 0% Daily Value for essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A, D, C, B12, and folate. There are no bonuses for positive nutrients, further contributing to its low score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in wesson all vegetable shortening, butter actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Concentrated Energy
WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER is a calorie-dense food, providing 857.14 calories per 100g. In contexts where a significant amount of energy is needed, such as for individuals with very high caloric requirements or in survival situations, concentrated fats can be a practical option. However, for most individuals, these calories come without accompanying essential nutrients, making it less ideal for regular dietary intake.
Useful for Specific Culinary Applications
This shortening is formulated to provide specific textural properties in baking and cooking. Its solid fat consistency at room temperature makes it suitable for creating flaky pie crusts, tender biscuits, and certain fried foods where a crisp texture is desired. The inclusion of soy lecithin acts as an emulsifier, which can contribute to a smoother consistency in baked goods. It can be a functional ingredient when specific culinary outcomes are prioritized over nutritional density.
Suitable for Plant-Based Diets
As an all-vegetable shortening, this product is free from animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets. It can serve as a substitute for butter or other animal fats in recipes, allowing those with dietary restrictions to achieve similar cooking and baking results. This can be a practical consideration for those seeking plant-based alternatives in their kitchen.
WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER scores 22/100 (Avoid) due to its high saturated fat content and ultra-processed nature, offering minimal nutritional value.
How to eat it
WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER is typically used as a solid fat in baking and frying. It's often chosen for its ability to create specific textures, such as flakiness in pastries or crispiness in fried foods. A common portion is 1 tablespoon, but it's important to consider its high calorie and saturated fat content.
Use sparingly in recipes that specifically call for shortening to achieve desired texture, rather than as a general-purpose fat.
Consider blending with healthier oils, like olive or canola oil, for cooking applications to reduce overall saturated fat intake.
When baking, explore recipes that use fruit purees or mashed avocado as partial fat substitutes to enhance nutrient density.
Things to keep in mind
This product is primarily composed of palm oil and coconut oil, which are high in saturated fat. While trans fat is 0g, the high saturated fat content (64.29g per 100g) is a significant nutritional consideration for individuals monitoring their cardiovascular health. The ingredient list also includes methyl silicone, an anti-foaming agent, and natural flavor, which can be a blend of various substances. Individuals with sensitivities to highly processed ingredients or those aiming to reduce their intake of ultra-processed foods may wish to limit consumption. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with soy allergies should note the presence of soy lecithin.
Is WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER healthy?
WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER scores 22/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy food choice. It is very high in saturated fat and provides virtually no protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients. While it can serve specific culinary purposes, it does not contribute positively to a balanced diet.
How does WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER compare to butter?
Compared to traditional butter, WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER is similar in its high fat content but differs in composition. While both are high in saturated fat, butter contains some natural vitamins and minerals, whereas this shortening offers none. For example, Land O'Lakes Butter also contains saturated fat but provides some Vitamin A. This shortening is also plant-based, making it suitable for vegan diets, unlike dairy butter.
What is the purpose of soy lecithin in this product?
Soy lecithin is included in WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER as an emulsifier. This means it helps to blend ingredients that typically don't mix well, such as oil and water, creating a smoother and more stable product. In baking, it can contribute to a better texture and consistency in the final product.
How much WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER can I consume daily?
Given its high content of saturated fat (64.29g per 100g) and its ultra-processed nature, WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER should be consumed in very limited quantities. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting saturated fat intake. It is best used sparingly for specific cooking or baking needs rather than as a regular dietary staple.
Can this shortening be used for deep frying?
Yes, WESSON ALL VEGETABLE SHORTENING, BUTTER can be used for deep frying. Its high smoke point and solid consistency contribute to a crisp texture in fried foods. However, due to its high saturated fat content, using it for deep frying will significantly increase the saturated fat content of the food being prepared.