What are unsaturated fats known for?

Unsaturated fats are recognized for being liquid at room temperature due to their molecular structure. Unlike saturated fats, which have no double bonds between carbon atoms and pack closely together, unsaturated fats contain one or more double bonds, which creates kinks in the fatty acid chains. This prevents the molecules from packing tightly, resulting in a liquid state at room temperature.

This characteristic is often seen in products like olive oil and other plant-based oils, which are rich in unsaturated fats. These fats are generally considered healthier options, as they can help maintain good cholesterol levels and provide essential fatty acids necessary for various bodily functions.

In contrast, solid fats at room temperature, such as butter or lard, are typically saturated fats, which is an important distinction in nutritional discussions.