The fat becomes solid at room temperature and foods made with these fats have a longer shelf life. Trans fatty acids are a type of fatty acid most commonly found in the diet when polyunsaturated fats are hydrogenated. Cholesterol is not a fat, but it is a fat-like, waxy substance. There are two types of cholesterol, the type found in the body and the type found in foods. Dietary cholesterol is found only in foods of animal origin, such as eggs, meat, poultry, fish, and dairy foods.
Cholesterol is part of every cell in the body and has many important functions.
Serum or blood cholesterol is mainly produced by the liver, but a high saturated fat diet and a high dietary cholesterol intake can elevate blood cholesterol in some people. Essential fatty acids are fatty acids that your body cannot make. They are required for particular metabolic processes and must be obtained from dietary sources. Linoleic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid that is found in vegetable oils and from animal sources such as fish oils, meat, and milk. The essential fatty acids are adequately supplied by a varied diet.