There is a thing such as "food grade mineral oil". Does "food grade" means it is safe to cook with?
I know it is used widely for oiling cutting boards. Also, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits using mineral oil for food (with limitations).
Is it dangerous even in limited amounts? Or can it be used instead of or mixed with vegetable oil?
Well, food-grade means you can ingest some without poisoning yourself. It does not mean it’s a suitable replacement for cooking or baking. If you do use it, you will soon learn that it’s a laxative, which means you won’t get to enjoy the food in peace.
In hard times, people have used it and during World War II, the British government suggested using liquid paraffin in place of other, rationed, fats. The already mentioned side effects were also observed. You can find a sample recipe here.
Food grade mineral oil just means it has been filtered of impurities that would harm you. It is meant to be used as a lubricant on food machinery and as a cutting board oil to help preserve the water repelling properties.
Do NOT eat or cook with mineral oil. Mineral Oil is a PETROLEUM product that is made from oil, refined, and distilled. Your body can't use it as food, and because it has been filtered it won't kill you, but its only usage in human consumption is as a laxative for forcing your bowels to empty when you have constipation. Not something a healthy person should touch!
