Thanks to the miracle of hydrogenation, we have “shortening” products such as Crisco. Shortening, I’ve since learned, is a nice word for white fat products that remain solidified regardless of room temperature. And the process of hydrogenation is also not a good thing.

The word betrays its etymology. Hydrogen gas is forced into shortening products (such as Cricso) to make it more solid. The irony is that, these shortening products were originally marketed as being good for one’s health.

Oopsie.

The jury is still out on hydrogenated oils, but more and more, it appears that foods with hydrogenated oils are extremely hazardous to one’s long-term health.