Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening scores 2/100, primarily due to its high content of saturated fat and trans fat, classifying it as an ultra-processed food.
Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening has a FoodScore of 2/100, indicating it should be avoided.
This product contains 100g of total fat per 100g, with 32.07g of saturated fat and 25g of trans fat.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic shortening, Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening has a similar nutritional profile.
Use sparingly and consider alternatives for everyday cooking due to its fat content.
Scores -40 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 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 (32.1g)-15
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 2
Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening receives a FoodScore of 2/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is primarily driven by its fat profile. Per 100g, the product contains 100g of total fat, with a significant 32.07g of saturated fat, which incurs a substantial penalty in the FoodScore system. Furthermore, the presence of 25g of trans fat contributes a significant penalty, as trans fats are generally recommended to be minimized in the diet. The ingredient list begins with Partially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, which is a source of trans fats. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is categorized as ultra-processed, leading to an additional penalty. The product offers no protein, fiber, or micronutrients, and contains no omega-3 fatty acids, which means it does not accrue any bonus points. Compared to a generic unbranded shortening, Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening has a very similar nutritional composition, particularly concerning its high fat and trans fat content.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in wesson lo melt grill shortening 6 lb actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Useful for specific cooking applications
While not a health-promoting food, Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening is formulated for specific culinary uses, such as grilling and frying, where a high melting point and stability are desired. Its composition allows for consistent performance in these applications, which can be important for certain cooking techniques. For professional kitchens or specific recipes requiring a solid, stable fat, this product can fulfill that functional role. However, it is important to consider the overall dietary context when using such products.
Zero sugar and sodium content
Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium per 100g. For individuals monitoring their intake of these specific nutrients, this product does not contribute to daily limits for added sugars or sodium. This can be a consideration in recipes where other ingredients provide sufficient flavor and saltiness, and the fat itself is not intended to add these components. However, this absence does not offset its high saturated and trans fat content.
Free from common allergens (excluding soy)
This product is free from several common allergens such as milk, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, and eggs. The label explicitly states "CONTAINS: SOY" due to the presence of Soy Lecithin and soybean oil. For individuals with allergies to other common food allergens, this product may be a suitable option from an allergen perspective, provided they do not have a soy allergy. Always check the ingredient list and allergen statement carefully to ensure it meets individual dietary needs.
Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening scores 2/100, primarily due to its high content of saturated fat and trans fat, classifying it as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Shortening like Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening is typically used in cooking and baking where a solid, stable fat is required. It's often chosen for frying, grilling, and creating flaky baked goods. A common serving size is 1 tbsp (14g).
When frying, use minimal amounts of Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening to coat surfaces rather than submerging foods.
Consider using unsaturated oils like olive oil or avocado oil for everyday cooking to reduce saturated and trans fat intake.
For baking, explore recipes that use butter or healthier oils as alternatives to shortening, or use shortening in very small quantities.
Store Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening in a cool, dry place to maintain its quality and extend shelf life.
Pair foods cooked with shortening with plenty of vegetables and lean proteins to balance the overall meal's nutritional profile.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution with Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening is its high content of partially hydrogenated soybean oil, which is a source of trans fats. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend keeping trans fat consumption as low as possible. The product also contains natural and artificial flavors and color added, which some individuals prefer to limit in their diet. Methyl Silicone is included as an anti-foaming agent. Individuals with a soy allergy should avoid this product as it explicitly states "CONTAINS: SOY" due to the presence of soy lecithin and soybean oil. Due to its high saturated and trans fat content, individuals concerned about cardiovascular health should limit their intake.
Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening scores 2/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy food choice. It is very high in total fat, with significant amounts of saturated fat and trans fat, and offers no beneficial micronutrients, protein, or fiber. It is classified as an ultra-processed food.
How does Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening compare to butter?
Compared to butter, Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening has a similar high fat content but significantly higher trans fat due to the partially hydrogenated oils. Butter, while high in saturated fat, typically contains negligible trans fat. Both should be used in moderation due to their fat profiles.
What is partially hydrogenated soybean oil?
Partially hydrogenated soybean oil is a type of fat that has undergone a process called partial hydrogenation. This process makes the oil more solid at room temperature and extends shelf life, but it also creates trans fats, which are detrimental to heart health.
What is a typical serving size for this shortening?
A typical serving size for Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening is 1 tbsp (14g). Given its high fat content, especially saturated and trans fats, it is advisable to limit intake to this small serving size or less, and to use it infrequently.
Can I use this shortening for deep frying?
While Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening is designed for high-heat applications like grilling, using it for deep frying would significantly increase the intake of saturated and trans fats. For deep frying, it's generally recommended to choose oils with a higher smoke point and a better fat profile, such as canola or peanut oil, and to use sparingly.
Is Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening suitable for baking?
Wesson Lo Melt Grill Shortening can be used in baking, particularly for recipes that call for shortening to achieve a specific texture, such as flaky pie crusts. However, due to its nutritional profile, especially the trans fat content, healthier alternatives like butter (in moderation) or certain oils are often preferred for everyday baking.