The process of converting vegetable oil into a solid is called?

The process of converting vegetable oil into a solid is known as hydrogenation. This chemical reaction involves adding hydrogen atoms to the unsaturated fats present in the vegetable oil. The addition of hydrogen changes the structure of the fatty acids, resulting in partially or fully saturated fats that are more solid at room temperature.

Hydrogenation is commonly used in food processing to create margarine and shortening from liquid oils, improving texture and shelf stability. This process alters the oils' physical properties, allowing them to be used in different culinary applications that require a solid or semi-solid form.

Understanding hydrogenation is crucial for various applications in food science, particularly in the context of nutritional considerations and food production methods. It is an essential concept in the study of fats in both home economics and nutrition.