Related Terms

• Benefat™, salatrim 23CA, short- and long-chain acyl triglyceride molecules, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), stearic acid.

Background

• Salatrim stands for "short- and long-chain acyl triglyceride molecules". Salatrim is mainly composed of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and stearic acid. SCFAs contain fewer calories per gram than other fats, and the stearic acid in salatrim may be absorbed at a low rate from the gastrointestinal tract. For these reasons, salatrim was proposed as a reduced fat, reduced-calorie, fat replacer. Salatrim contains no trans fats and has five calories per gram. The same amount of fat contains nine calories.

• Nabisco and the Pfizer Food Science Group licensed salatrim and performed studies in animals and humans to demonstrate its safety. Initially, salatrim served as a replacement for cocoa butter in baking chips and sweets. Salatrim may be used in various products, including baked goods and microwave popcorn. It is not suitable for use as an oil for deep frying because it breaks down at the high temperatures used.

• The SCFAs and stearic acid in salatrim occur naturally and are thought to be processed by the body in the same way as other fats. For this reason, consuming salatrim is predicted to cause the same feeling of fullness caused by eating other fats.

• Nabisco sold the rights to salatrim to Cultor, which currently markets the substance under the name of Benefat™.

Scientific Evidence

Tradition/Theory

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious and should be evaluated by a qualified health care professional.

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adults (18 years and older)

• There is no proven safe or effective dose for salatrim in adults.

Children (under 18 years old)

• There is no proven safe or effective dose for salatrim in children.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Allergies

• Insufficient available evidence.

Side Effects and Warnings

• Salatrim is possibly safe when used in amounts found in foods. Salatrim is listed on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) list. However, some experts suggest that salatrim and other fat substitutes may be unsafe.

• Use cautiously in patients with liver disease, as salatrim in high amounts has been shown to increase plasma serum liver enzymes.

• Salatrim may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Avoid in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of available scientific evidence.

Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

Interactions with Drugs

• Insufficient available evidence.

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

• Insufficient available evidence.

Author Information

• This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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