Difference Between Fats and Oils

Difference between fats and oils: Fats and oils are necessary macronutrients. Both are made up of carbon, oxygen and hydrogen. The combination of these molecules forms a chain of molecules known as fatty acids. Fats and oils are required for the proper functioning of the body. They seem similar but are different on the basis of chemical structure, physical properties and nutritional value. In this article, we will study fats, oils and the differences between fats and oils.

Fats

Fats are triglycerides. They are esters of fatty acids. Fats are solids at room temperature. Fats are soluble in organic solvents. They are insoluble in water. Fats give energy to the body. They also support the maintenance of cell membranes. Fats are obtained from plants and animals.

Solid Fats are of two types

1. Saturated fats
2. Trans fats

Saturated fats can increase cholesterol levels. These are more in animal fat or red meat. Coconut oil, palm oil, and cocoa butter have saturated fats. These are present in large quantities in non-dairy products and in snacks, too.

Through the process of hydrogenation, fat is changed to increase its shelf life. At room temperature, it is harder. Trans fats are found in cookies, chips, processed foods etc. We should avoid eating trans fats as it can increase cholesterol levels.

Oils

Fats that are liquids at room temperature are called oils. Unsaturated fats come under oils. Unsaturated fats are of two types: polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats. Cholesterol levels can be controlled by consuming unsaturated fats.

Nuts, avocados and vegetable oils have monounsaturated fats. If you consume these foods, keep high good HDL cholesterol and lower bad LDL cholesterol.

Polyunsaturated fats are in sunflower, corn and beans. Omega 3 and omega 6 are two types of polyunsaturated fats.

Difference between Fats and Oils

Similarities between Fats and Oils

There are some similarities between fats and oils. These are discussed below:

• Both fats and oils are made of Carbon, Hydrogen and Oxygen.
• Fats and oils are made up of long-chain fatty acids.
• They both serve as macronutrients.
• Oils and fats both are involved in immunity.
• They both are lipids and provide energy to the body.
• They both should be consumed in limit for maintaining good health.
• Fats and oils contain glycerol.
• Fats and oils both have culinary and cosmetic uses.

Key differences between fats and oils in organic chemistry

The following are key differences between fats and oils:

1. Fats are solids at room temperature. Oils are liquids at room temperature.
2. Fats are composed of saturated fatty acids, and oils are composed of unsaturated fatty acids.
3. Fats increase the levels of cholesterol in the blood, while oil decreases the level of cholesterol in the blood.
4. Fats are found under the skin of animals or around organs. Oils occur in the seeds and fruits of plants.
5. Fats are oily substances, whereas oils are viscous liquids.
6. Fats increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, whereas oils lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
7. Oxidative rancidity is high in fats and low in oils.
8. Fats are saturated fats and trans fats. Oils are monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats.
9. Examples of fats are butter, cream and meat.
10. Examples of oils are coconut oil, seed oil and olive oil.

Uses of Fats and Oils

Fats and oils are used in cooking and baking also. Fats can be heated to a high temperature without burning. They have high smoke points, so oils can be used for frying and baking.

The smoke point of the oil is low, so they can be used for stir-frying, sauteing and dressings for salads. When heated to high temperatures, oils can produce harmful compounds.

Another example is soap. Soap can be made using Coconut oil and alkali sodium hydroxide.

Points to remember

• Fats are triglycerides, and oils are non-polar chemical substances.
• Fats are insoluble in water and soluble in organic solvents. Oils are insoluble in water.
• Fats are solid at room temperature. Oils are liquid at room temperature.
• Fats are of two types: saturated and trans.
• Types of oils are polyunsaturated and monounsaturated.
• When unsaturated fats are partially hydrogenated, trans fat is formed.
• Saturated fats have single bonds in their fatty acids. Unsaturated fats have double bonds in their fatty acids.
• Oils are flammable and surface-active.
• Fats and oils both are lipids.
• Fats and oils are energy stored in plants and animals.

FAQs on Difference Between Fats and Oils

What are the 4 functions of fat and oil?

Fat serves as an important way to store food for energy. It acts as a big, long-lasting energy source. A thick layer of fat under the skin helps protect the body from extreme temperatures and helps maintain a stable internal environment. Fats are also used by the body to make and regulate hormones

Is oil converted to fat?

Oils are unsaturated esters that can be transformed into fats through a process called catalytic hydrogenation, where they become saturated.

Is oil good or bad fat?

Healthy unsaturated fats, like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, reduce the chance of getting sick. You can find these good fats in vegetable oils like olive, canola, sunflower, soy, and corn, as well as in nuts, seeds, and fish

Do all oils have fat?

Oils are liquids like vegetable oils you use in cooking. They're from plants and fish. Oils aren't their own food group, but they give you good things like healthy fats and vitamin E.

Which oil is rich in fat?

Saturated fat is mostly in animal products, but some plant foods like coconut, coconut oil, palm oil, and palm kernel oil also have a lot of it. Reducing saturated fat might not help much if folks switch it with sugary or processed carbs