As a food science expert with a background in both culinary arts and nutrition, I have a comprehensive understanding of the composition and manufacturing processes of various food items, including the iconic Oreo cookie. The question at hand is whether the cream filling of an Oreo is made out of lard. To provide a detailed and accurate response, I will delve into the history of Oreo production, the ingredients used in its manufacturing, and the reasons behind any changes made over the years.

**Step 1: Historical Context of Oreo Production**

The Oreo cookie was first introduced by the National Biscuit Company (Nabisco) in 1912. It quickly became a staple in American households and has since expanded its reach globally. The original recipe for the Oreo cream filling was indeed made with lard, which was a common ingredient in many baked goods at the time due to its availability and affordability. Lard, derived from rendered fat of a pig, has been used in cooking and baking for centuries for its rich flavor and texture.

Step 2: Evolution of Ingredients

Over the years, there have been numerous changes and improvements to the Oreo recipe to cater to evolving consumer preferences and health concerns. One significant change was the shift from using lard to vegetable oil in the cream filling. This change was made in the 1990s, as indicated by the reference provided, which is a considerable shift from the original formula.

**Step 3: Current Composition of Oreo Cream Filling**

Today, the cream filling of an Oreo is not made out of lard. The primary ingredients in the filling are sugar, vegetable oil (specifically, partially hydrogenated soybean oil), and high fructose corn syrup, among other components. The use of vegetable oil as a substitute for lard is a reflection of the broader trend in the food industry to move away from animal fats due to health concerns associated with saturated fats and cholesterol.

**Step 4: Health Considerations and Consumer Preferences**

The decision to switch from lard to vegetable oil was influenced by several factors. Health concerns about the high levels of saturated fats in animal fats led to a preference for plant-based oils, which are generally lower in saturated fats and do not contain cholesterol. Additionally, there has been a growing demand for products that align with dietary preferences such as vegetarianism and veganism, further motivating the shift away from animal-derived ingredients.

Step 5: Conclusion

In conclusion, the cream filling of an Oreo is not made out of lard. The original recipe did utilize lard, but this was changed in the 1990s in response to health concerns and evolving consumer preferences. The current formulation of the Oreo cream filling is made with vegetable oil, which is a more health-conscious and inclusive choice. This change is an example of how food manufacturers adapt their products to meet the needs and desires of a changing market.

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4. They used to be made with lard. Like many things, Oreo filling was once made using lard. Luckily (or unluckily for lard fans) Nabisco got the memo and switched to vegetable oil in the '90s.Dec 30, 2015read more >>