Is Safflower oil - Hollywood Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look for hidden gluten in additives or processing aids. Fortunately, Hollywood Safflower Oil keeps it simple. The formula is remarkably clean, which minimizes the risk of gluten contamination significantly.

The primary ingredient is Expeller pressed high oleic safflower oil. Safflower is a seed, not a grain like wheat or barley, making it naturally gluten-free. The term 'expeller pressed' refers to the mechanical extraction method used to get the oil out of the seed. This physical process does not use chemical solvents and does not introduce gluten.

The secondary ingredients are dl-alpha-tocopheryl and dl-alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E). These are synthetic forms of Vitamin E used as antioxidants to keep the oil from going rancid. They are derived from petrochemical sources or vegetable oils and are completely free of gluten. There are no flavorings or thickeners that would require a 'natural flavors' warning, which is often where gluten hides.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Hollywood Safflower Oil is a pure fat source. It contains 0 grams of carbohydrates, meaning it has zero sugar and zero fiber. Because it contains no carbohydrates, it technically has no glycemic impact, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

One tablespoon contains approximately 120 calories and 14 grams of fat. The 'high oleic' designation indicates that this specific variety of safflower oil is high in monounsaturated fats (similar to olive oil), which are generally considered heart-healthy. It is free of trans fats and cholesterol.