Ingredient Guide

🇬🇧 Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat on Food Labels in UK

Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat is permitted with restrictions and maximum levels in United Kingdom: declare as "hydrogenated [source] vegetable fat" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Fully or partially hydrogenated plant-based fats used for texture and stability in baked goods and confectionery. In United Kingdom, Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat is regulated under Retained EU Law & UK FIC as a food fat. UK maintains trans fat limits. Specific plant source must be declared per UK FIC requirements. "Vegetable fat" without specifying origin not compliant since 2014.

What You Must Include

Declare as "hydrogenated [source] vegetable fat" in the ingredient list
Declare with functional class: "fat"
Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources

Common Violations

Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "hydrogenated [source] vegetable fat"
Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat
Missing the functional class in the ingredient declaration
Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat content

Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"fat: hydrogenated [source] vegetable fat"

Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... hydrogenated [source] vegetable fat ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Hardened vegetable fat, Vegetable shortening) without the approved declaration name

Ingredient list with "Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat" without functional class or E-number

"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required

How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat and all its common names (Hydrogenated vegetable oil, Hardened vegetable fat, Vegetable shortening, Fully hydrogenated soybean oil) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under UK rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How must Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat be declared on food labels in UK?

Declare as "hydrogenated [source] vegetable fat" in the ingredient list. UK maintains trans fat limits. Specific plant source must be declared per UK FIC requirements. "Vegetable fat" without specifying origin not compliant since 2014.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat?

Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat may appear under the following names: Hydrogenated vegetable oil, Hardened vegetable fat, Vegetable shortening, Fully hydrogenated soybean oil. Common hidden sources include: Biscuits, Crackers, Chocolate coatings, Non-dairy whipped topping, Peanut butter (stabilized), Some spreads.

Is Hydrogenated Vegetable Fat banned or restricted in any market?

Restricted with maximum levels in: EU, UK, Canada.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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