You might be surprised to know that Oreos and Nutella have a lot in common. Yes, we’re aware that Oreos are stuffed cookies. We also realize that Nutella is a delicious and heavenly chocolate hazelnut spread. And while these classic treats might seem worlds (or aisles) apart, they actually share an unfortunate secret. Oreos and Nutella both contain palm oil, one of the most shunned ingredients in the food industry.
Palm oil production is far from sustainable or ethical.
Let’s talk about why this is a big deal. Palm oil is used in a wide variety of products, from cosmetics to our beloved Oreo cookies. However, the actual process of making palm oil isn’t a pretty one. Since it comes from the African oil palm tree — a plant that flourishes in rainforests — its demand has contributed to serious deforestation.
It goes without saying that this is simply not cool. After all, there are animals living in those rainforests. Yet, in order to make palm oil, rainforests are cleared — about 300 football fields worth, to be exact. And when this happens? Species like orangutans lose their homes. In fact, experts estimate that wild orangutans may be extinct within the next 5 to 10 years, and it’s largely due to the palm oil industry.
To top things off, the production of palm oil is linked to the progression of climate change. The oil, which is extremely high in saturated fat, is also quite unhealthy for humans.
So, there you have it. Oreos and Nutella, two cult favorites, are both made with this terrible ingredient. Don’t worry, it’s hard for us to stomach, too. Here’s to hoping the makers of these beloved snacks make some changes within the coming years.
