Fats Substitute

I. Definition/Description

Fat substitutes are substances that look, feel or taste like fat. It provides the
functional qualities that is normally provided by fats. Because fat has so many diverse
functions in foods, it is virtually impossible to replace it with a single compound or
process. The ingredients used as an exchange of fat depends on how a product will be
eaten or prepared. For instance, not all fat-substitute ingredients are stable when
heated, so the type of fat substitute used in a fat-free salad dressing may not work well
in a muffin mix.

II. Examples and Its Uses

Example Use
Carrageenan emulsifier, stabilizer, thickener
eliminates fat, provides great taste,
Olestra
prevent diseases
Polydextrose does not affect blood sugar control

III. Health Implications

According to the American Dietetic Association, fat substitutes provide an

opportunity for individuals to reduce intake of high-fat foods and enjoy reduced-fat
formulations of familiar foods while preserving basic food selection pattern. Indeed,
many of the fat replacements in use today can be incorporated into foods that reflect the
changing tastes of many people. Traditional and new ingredients and technologies
provide flavorful, satisfying foods, such as salad and cooking oils, cheeses, ice creams,
bakery products, and salty snacks and crackers, that are reduced in fat or contain no
fat.

Several studies have shown that using reduced-fat versions of food products can
significantly reduce the amount of fat that people eat. For some people, eating less fat
may lead to eating fewer calories and, eventually, to weight loss.

A common misconception about reduced-fat foods is that they are also low in
calories. For some products, however, this is not the case. Most reduced-fat foods have
other ingredients added to replace the texture or taste provided by fat, so that while the
calories may be slightly lower in a fat-reduced product, the difference between it and a
full-fat product may not be significant. With fat-modified products, as with all foods,
portion size and calories still count.