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Small-Scale Question Sunday for October 27, 2024

Do you have a dumb question that you're kind of embarrassed to ask in the main thread? Is there something you're just not sure about?

This is your opportunity to ask questions. No question too simple or too silly.

Culture war topics are accepted, and proposals for a better intro post are appreciated.

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What’s the actual deal with ‘seed oils’?

Obviously a topic right now. Does RFK have a point about polyunsaturated fats?

It's possible there's some minor impact from eating particular foods, but I am generally an IIFYM guy when it comes to the big obesity/health stuff.

Seed oil consumption tracks obesity because it is used in so many processed foods. The majority of technical diets that major in the minors just track with "create a restriction that prevents you from eating at a convenience store or fast food restaurant;" this prevents most people from eating mindlessly and serves as an effective calorie stopper.

I'm definitely on board with this explanation. I'd also point to seed oils not tasting as good as the more expensive oils they replace leading to more artificial colours and flavours which jack with endocrine systems. But is it worse to cook your fried egg at home in vegetable oil than bacon grease?

But is it worse to cook your fried egg at home in vegetable oil than bacon grease?

I don't really know and I don't worry about it too much. I tend to go the bacon grease route, I rarely use vegetable oil at home. But I'm not going to ask what oil the recipe used when I eat at someone's home, and if I eat some junk occasionally I'm not going to sweat it.

Sensitivities vary, of course. Maybe there's an allergy response some people have.