Cholesterol is found only in living, moving creatures.
Plants never contain cholesterol, but they do have stanols and sterols that have a similar chemical structures. Both block absorption of cholesterol in humans, with stanols far more effective than sterols. The margarine, Benecol, has been sold in Finland for more than a year and so far, no serious side effects have been reported. No food or drug, by itself, prevents heart attacks. Stanol margarines will not correct an unhealthy diet.