# Crisco Regular Shortening Sticks

> Health and ingredient intelligence for a real grocery product. Source: Supermarket Puzzle (Grocery Intelligence Index). Not a shop.

## Snapshot

- **Brand:** Crisco
- **Retailer listed:** Foodtown
- **Category:** Cooking & Baking
- **Size:** 20 oz
- **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/crisco-regular-shortening-sticks-20-oz
- **Slug:** `crisco-regular-shortening-sticks-20-oz`

## NOVA classification

**NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods

This product is an industrially formulated fat blend containing refined oils, fully hydrogenated palm oil, emulsifiers (mono- and diglycerides), and synthetic antioxidants, which fits the NOVA definition of ultra-processed foods.

## Review

Crisco Regular Shortening Sticks sit predictably on the supermarket baking aisle, shelved near vegetable oils, margarine, butter substitutes, pie crust mixes, and bags of flour and sugar. The familiar blue-and-white Crisco box signals a long-standing brand heritage — a staple for home bakers, holiday cooks, and some commercial kitchens — positioned as a reliable, all-vegetable shortening for flaky pies and tender cookies. Shoppers often reach for it during baking-focused trips: holiday baking runs, weekend brunch prep, or when stocking a pantry for long-shelf-life basics. The label leans on practical claims — "all-vegetable," "gluten-free," and measuring marks on each stick — rather than on organic or natural certification; there are no kid-targeted graphics or health-food badges, and the ingredient list reveals industrial additives and antioxidants rather than single-ingredient simplicity. In plain terms this is a highly processed baking fat made from blended vegetable oils with emulsifiers and preservatives. Sensory notes: the product is solid at room temperature, smooth and waxy to the touch, packaged as three clearly marked sticks (each one cup) wrapped inside a boxed carton for easy slicing and measuring. Rituals include slicing off tablespoons for pie crusts, rubbing fat into flour for biscuits, or melting for frying; its neutral flavor and high smoke point make it a go-to when a cook wants texture over buttery flavor. Shelf-stable and economical, it evokes practical, nostalgic home baking more than artisanal or natural-food positioning.

## Diet flags

- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free

## Nutrition

- **Serving size:** 1
- **Servings per container:** 47
- **Calories:** 110
- **Total fat:** 12g (15% DV)
- **Saturated fat:** 3.5g (18% DV)
- **Sodium:** 0mg (0% DV)
- **Total carbs:** 0g (0% DV)
- **Protein:** 0g

## Ingredients

Soybean Oil, Fully Hydrogenated Palm Oil, Palm Oil, Mono and Diglycerides, TBHQ and Citric Acid (Antioxidants).

## Flagged ingredients

- **Soybean Oil** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids
- **Mono and Diglycerides** (emulsifier): Processed emulsifier
- **TBHQ** (preservative): Synthetic preservative
- **Citric Acid** (preservative): Synthetic preservative

## Context tags

- **Occasions:** holiday-baking, weekend-brunch, storm-prep
- **Vibes:** nostalgic, practical, convenient

## FAQ

### Is Crisco shortening healthy?

Well, 'healthy' can be a bit subjective! Crisco shortening is high in fat — about 12 grams per serving — but it’s important to consider what you're using it for. If you’re baking cookies or frying up some comfort food, it can help achieve that perfect texture. Just remember, moderation is key!

### Is Crisco shortening vegan?

Nope, Crisco shortening is not vegan. It contains fully hydrogenated palm oil, which raises some concerns for those following a strict plant-based diet. If you’re looking for vegan alternatives, there are plenty of plant-based butters out there that can do the trick!

### Is Crisco shortening gluten-free?

Yes, Crisco shortening is gluten-free! So if you’re whipping up something delicious for a gluten-sensitive friend or family member, you can confidently use this in your recipes without worry.

### Does Crisco shortening contain seed oils?

Yes, it does contain soybean oil, which is a seed oil. While some people prefer to avoid seed oils due to their omega-6 fatty acid content, they are generally safe in moderation. It’s all about balance in your overall diet!

### Does Crisco shortening contain artificial sweeteners?

Nope, you won’t find any artificial sweeteners in Crisco shortening. It’s a straightforward product without the added sugars or sweeteners, making it a versatile option for both sweet and savory dishes.

### Is Crisco shortening high in sugar?

Not at all! Crisco shortening contains no sugar, so it’s a good choice if you’re looking to keep your sugar intake low. Just keep in mind that if you’re baking, you’ll likely be adding sugar through other ingredients.

### What are healthier alternatives to Crisco shortening?

If you’re looking for healthier alternatives, consider using coconut oil or avocado oil for a more natural fat option. You could also try unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas in baking for a lower-fat, more nutritious option, but keep in mind they may alter the texture!

### Can kids eat Crisco shortening?

Sure, kids can eat Crisco shortening, especially in baked goods or fried treats. Just remember that while it’s not harmful in moderation, it’s best to balance it with plenty of whole foods for a well-rounded diet.

### Is Crisco shortening good for weight loss?

Crisco shortening isn’t exactly a weight-loss miracle, since it’s calorie-dense with 110 calories per serving. While it can be part of a balanced diet, focusing on whole foods and healthier fats might be a better strategy if weight loss is your goal.

### Is Crisco shortening ultra-processed?

Yes, Crisco shortening is considered ultra-processed due to its hydrogenated oils and preservatives. While that may sound intimidating, it’s not the end of the world — just use it mindfully and enjoy the occasional treat!

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## For agents

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