Fats & oils

Shortening bread, soybean (hydrogenated) and cottonseed

FDC 172329tablespoon (13 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 24 · +2 vs Fats & oils median

This bread shortening comes in at 24 of 100, a Low band that ranks 28th of 60 in Fats & oils. Its vitamin E content is notable at 41% DV, the highest standout figure among this group of oils and fats.

Shortening like this is blended into bread and pastry dough to create a tender, flaky crumb rather than eaten on its own. A tablespoon (13 g) is the typical baking measure, and its 22 g of saturated fat per 100 g is the highest of the group, so it is best kept to the amounts a recipe actually calls for.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around shortening bread, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 0 g · 0%Carb 0 g · 0%Fat 100 g · 100%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories884 kcal44%
Total fat100 g128%
Saturated fat22 g110%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Sodium0 mg0%
Carbohydrate0 g0%
Dietary fiber0 g0%
Sugars0 g
Protein0 g0%
Potassium0 mg0%
Calcium0 mg0%
Iron0 mg0%
Magnesium0 mg0%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A0 µg0%
Vitamin E6.1 mg41%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 172329

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Vitamin E41% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the fats & oils median

Nutrient density24 vs 22 median
Protein / 100 g0 vs 0 median
Fiber / 100 g0 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g0 vs 0 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Oil, tomatoseedDensity 24 vs 24Oil, sesame, salad or cookingDensity 25 vs 24Salad dressing, bacon and tomatoDensity 25 vs 24

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

This shortening is a solid, white, flavorless fat made from hydrogenated soybean and cottonseed oils, built specifically for baking. It creams easily with sugar for cookies, cuts into flour for flaky pie crusts and biscuits, and holds its shape at room temperature better than butter, which makes doughs easier to handle in a warm kitchen. It is also used for deep frying and pan greasing, since its neutral flavor will not compete with whatever it is cooking.

At 884 calories per 100 g, about 115 calories per tablespoon, shortening is used in the measured amounts a recipe calls for rather than eaten on its own. It is notably rich in vitamin E, supplying 41% of the daily value per 100 g, the highest share of any nutrient tracked for it here. Because it is shelf-stable, it can be stored in a sealed container at room temperature away from direct heat, and it does not need refrigeration the way butter or lard typically does.

Frequently asked questions about shortening bread

How many calories are in this shortening?

It has 884 calories per 100 g, about 115 calories per tablespoon (13 g).

Is this shortening a good source of vitamin E?

Yes, it provides 41% of the daily vitamin E value per 100 g.

What is this shortening used for?

It is used mainly for baking flaky pie crusts and biscuits, as well as frying and pan greasing.

View the USDA source record