Is Vegetable Oil Really a Seed Oil?

by Emily Tam August 11, 2025

We've all seen "vegetable oil" on ingredient lists, and it doesn’t sound bad, right? Like it's packed with all the goodness of veggies! But when it comes to better food choices, especially if you're trying to avoid certain fats, it's super important to dig a little deeper. So, let's tackle a question we hear a lot: Is vegetable oil actually a seed oil?

The short answer? Yes, absolutely!

It might surprise you, but what's labeled as "vegetable oil" in your grocery store is almost always a blend of oils derived from seeds. Think about common culprits like soybean oil, canola oil (which comes from rapeseed), corn oil, cottonseed oil, sunflower oil, and safflower oil. These are all examples of seed oils that often make up that generic "vegetable oil" blend.

So, why the confusing name? Well, "vegetable oil" sounds much more appealing and healthy than "blended seed oil," doesn't it? It's a clever marketing term that can sometimes obscure what you're actually consuming.

Read: Is Sunflower Oil a Seed Oil?

Why the Concern About Seed Oils?

At Jackson's, we believe in providing the best for your body, which is why we choose to avoid seed oils. Many people are becoming more aware of potential concerns associated with these oils:

Omega-6 Overload and Inflammation: Seed oils are often packed with Omega-6 fatty acids. While our bodies need Omega-6s, the issue arises with the ratio compared to Omega-3s (which are known for being very anti-inflammatory). Historically, human diets had roughly a 1:1 ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3. Today, with the prevalence of seed oils, that ratio can be as high as 10:1 or even higher! When Omega-6 acids, particularly linoleic acid, break down in the body, they can convert into compounds like arachidonic acid, which may become inflammatory. Some studies suggest a high intake of Omega-6 can contribute to inflammatory responses and impact heart health.
Processing Concerns: The extraction of seed oils often involves intense chemical processes. For instance, hexane gas is commonly used, and while efforts are made to remove it, trace amounts can sometimes be left behind in the final product. This raises a concern for some who prefer to avoid such processing residues.
Dangerous Chemicals from Reheating: While not something you'd typically do at home, in restaurants and food manufacturing facilities, oils can be reheated repeatedly. This practice with seed oils can lead to the production of dangerous chemicals, further adding to health concerns.
Emerging Research: There's growing discussion and research around the impact of seed oils on health. As Dr. Tara Narula, Chief Medical Correspondent for ABC News, noted, "There has been recent research that shows some of these seed oils in the lab or research has been shown to fuel triple negative breast cancer cell growth. There's concern around that."

At Jackson's, we're all about clarity and providing you with the best. That's why we're champions of oils like avocado oil! Unlike those highly processed seed oils, avocado oil is extracted from the fruit itself, not the seed. It's a fantastic choice for its wonderful flavor and beneficial fats, making it a wholesome option for your cooking and your snacks. Plus, some studies even suggest that monounsaturated fats found in oils like avocado oil may help support the integrity of your gut lining!

Understanding what's in our food is the first step toward making informed choices that support our well-being. So, next time you see "vegetable oil," remember you're likely looking at a mix of seed oils.

Ready to snack better?

Read: Is Olive Oil a Seed Oil?

Ditch the Seed Oils, Choose Jackson's

At Jackson's, we believe in delicious snacks made with real, simple ingredients, and that means no seed oils, ever! Our chips are cooked in premium avocado oil, giving you that satisfying crunch and amazing flavor you love, without any of the ingredients you're trying to avoid.

Check out our full range of delicious, seed oil-free snacks today and taste the Jackson's difference!

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