No, lard is not inherently trans fat. Trans fat generally refers to hydrogenated fats developed by man-made processes to keep foodstuffs moist and tender through abnormal temperatures. Fried, processed, and some baked goods contain hydrogenated (trans) fat. Though trans fat do occur naturally in some degree (such as in dairy), the anti-trans fat push is for heavily manufactured foods.
No. Lard is animal fat and shortening is vegetable oil that has been hydrogenated.
Hydrogenated fats.
Hydrogenated Oils, Coconut, Butter, Animal Fat (lard) cheese
No, it does not. The FDA allows food products to be labeled 0 grams trans fat if there is less than 0.5 grams of trans fat. A way to double-check that there is no trans fat is by checking the ingredients list. If is says "shortening", "partially hydrogenated oils", or "hydrogenated oils", then there is trans fat in the product.
Partially hydrogenated vegetable oil.
Yes, the Corn Muffin Mix does contain lard. Specifically, the box states that it contains "lard, hydrogenated lard, or partially hydrogenated lard."
Polyunsaturated fat is considered the healthiest option among these choices, as it can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Saturated fat and trans fatty acids should be limited in the diet, while hydrogenated fats often contain trans fats and should also be avoided.
Anything containing hydrogenated vegetable oil or trans fat.
Many foods naturally contain trans fats such as dairy and meat products. The process of hydrogenating fats results in the formation of trans fats so products that contain hydrogenated vegetable oil have higher levels of trans fats. If the food label lists hydrogenated oil then the product will contain some level of trans fat.
Beef fat and lard are used less in cooking since the introduction of hydrogenated vegetable oils.
Man made fats, which include trans fats and partially hydrogenated oils are clearly the most dangerous. Polyunsaturated vegetable oils (Canola, corn, cottonseed etc), are already oxidized trans fats after the manufacturing process.
When hydrogen has been added to unsaturated fats, it is called hydrogenation. This process converts unsaturated fats into saturated fats, making them solid at room temperature. However, it can also create trans fats, which are considered unhealthy.