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TL;DR
Yes, Crisco is generally considered gluten-free. The ingredients in Crisco shortening and oils do not typically contain gluten, making them safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to consume.
Quick Tips
1Zero grams of trans fat per serving in most current Crisco products
2Crisco’s vegetable oil products are cholesterol-free
3Some Crisco products are made with plant-based oils, which can be a source of unsaturated fats
# In This Article
3 sectionsQuick navigation to each section of this article:
1 Benefits of Crisco
Zero grams of trans fat per serving in most current Crisco products
Jump2 Who should avoid Crisco
Those with cardiovascular concerns: Crisco contains trans fats, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
Jump3 Related Gluten Free Products
Here are five gluten-free options similar to Crisco, along with short descriptions for each product:
JumpBenefits of Crisco
| Benefits of Crisco |
|---|
| Zero grams of trans fat per serving in most current Crisco products |
| Crisco’s vegetable oil products are cholesterol-free |
| Some Crisco products are made with plant-based oils, which can be a source of unsaturated fats |
| Crisco can be used as a substitute for butter in some recipes, potentially reducing saturated fat intake |
| The high smoke point of Crisco makes it suitable for high-heat cooking methods |
| Crisco is shelf-stable and has a long storage life |
| Some Crisco products are fortified with omega-3 fatty acids |
| Crisco can be used in baking to create tender, flaky textures in pastriesIt’s important to note that while these points may be considered benefits in certain contexts, Crisco is still a processed food high in calories and fat. Nutritionists generally recommend using whole food sources of fats, such as olive oil, avocados, or nuts, for better overall health benefits. |
Who should avoid Crisco
| Who should avoid Crisco |
|---|
| Those with cardiovascular concerns: Crisco contains trans fats, which can increase the risk of heart disease. |
| Individuals managing their weight: Crisco is high in calories and may contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. |
| People with high cholesterol: The trans fats in Crisco can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. |
| Those following a whole foods or clean eating diet: Crisco is a highly processed food product. |
| Individuals with soybean allergies: Some Crisco products contain soybean oil. |
| People adhering to certain religious dietary restrictions: Crisco may not be suitable for some kosher or halal diets. |
| Those seeking to reduce their intake of processed foods: Crisco is a manufactured product with additives. |
| Individuals following a vegan diet: Some Crisco products may contain animal-derived ingredients. |
| People with specific health conditions who have been advised by their doctors to avoid hydrogenated oils or trans fats. |
| Those looking to increase their intake of healthier fats: There are many natural alternatives with better nutritional profiles.Remember, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice. |
Related Gluten Free Products
Here are five gluten-free options similar to Crisco, along with short descriptions for each product:
| Related Gluten Free Products |
|---|
| Coconut oil- Solid at room temperature, coconut oil is a versatile alternative that adds a subtle coconut flavor to baked goods. It's rich in medium-chain triglycerides and has a high smoke point, making it suitable for various cooking methods. |
| Palm shortening- Made from palm oil, this shortening is solid at room temperature and has a neutral flavor. It's free from trans fats and hydrogenated oils, making it a popular choice for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional shortening. |
| Spectrum Organic Shortening- This vegetable shortening is made from palm oil and is certified organic. It's non-hydrogenated, contains no trans fats, and is designed to be a one-to-one replacement for traditional shortening in recipes. |
| Nutiva Organic Shortening- A blend of palm and coconut oils, this organic shortening is solid at room temperature and has a neutral flavor. It's non-GMO, fair trade certified, and suitable for various baking and cooking applications. |
| Earth Balance Vegan Shortening- This plant-based shortening is made from a blend of palm fruit, canola, coconut, and olive oils. It's non-hydrogenated, contains no trans fats, and is designed to mimic the performance of traditional shortening in baking and cooking. |
Health Information
? Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions1 What does shortening do to gluten?
2 What is Crisco Shortening made of?
3 What can I use instead of Crisco Shortening?
4 What can I use instead of shortening gluten free?
Our Expert
Drs. Ilse van Asperen
Orthomolecular Therapist, Nutritional Coach & Professional Editor
Drs. Ilse van Asperen is a medical doctor specialising in orthomolecular therapy and nutritional coaching. With a background in public and clinical health research and management, she focuses on addressing the root causes of health issues through diet, gut health, and stress reduction. As a professional editor for Little Helpers, she reviews all gluten-free content to ensure accuracy, safety, and scientific credibility. Read more on Drs. Ilse van Asperen's own website
Our Sources
The information on this page is based on reputable health and nutrition organisations, ensuring accuracy and reliability for anyone following a gluten-free diet. For further details, see the sources below.