Along with its low monounsaturated fat content, the saturated fat in cottonseed oil makes it a less healthy choice. A 1 tbsp. serving. contains 3.5 g, compared to just 2 g in the same amount of olive oil. Saturated fat increases risk of heart disease when consumed in excess, as it increases LDL levels and decreases HDL.

Because of its low production cost, widespread use in processed foods urges caution. Some of the saturated fat content of many packaged foods, such as cookies and crackers, may come from cottonseed oil.