Are hydrogenated vegetable fats vegan?

Hydrogenated vegetable fats are a type of fat derived from plant-based sources that have undergone a process called hydrogenation. This process involves adding hydrogen atoms to the unsaturated fats found in vegetable oils, which increases their stability and shelf-life. However, this also results in the formation of trans fats, which have been linked to various health issues such as heart disease. As a result, many health experts recommend limiting consumption of foods containing hydrogenated vegetable fats. Despite this, they remain a common ingredient in processed foods due to their low cost and ability to enhance texture and flavor.