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Forward2026 Spring Symposium Recorded Meal Session: Seed Oils: Understanding the Evidence and Communicating with Confidence
Seed oils are at the center of ongoing public and professional discussion, with strong opinions often shaped by selective interpretation of the evidence. This session provides a focused review of the science behind common claims, including ecological correlations, cardiovascular outcomes, ultra-processed foods, oil processing, inflammation, and oxidation. Presenters will examine frequently cited studies and clarify how these data can be interpreted appropriately in the context of overall dietary patterns and health outcomes.
In addition to the science, this recorded CE session will highlight insights from consumer polling, focus groups, and health professional research to illustrate how seed oils are currently perceived—and where confusion persists. Attendees will also gain practical guidance on communicating about seed oils effectively, including message framing strategies and language shown to resonate across audiences.
Learning Objectives
After completing this activity, nutrition professionals will better be able to:
- Interpret commonly cited research and ecological data related to seed oils, including their relevance to cardiovascular health and overall dietary patterns.
- Evaluate prevalent claims about seed oils—such as concerns related to processing, ultra-processed foods, and oxidation—using an evidence-based framework.
- Apply data-supported communication strategies to clearly and effectively discuss seed oils with diverse audiences across various professional settings.
Additional Information
Course summary
- 1.25 CDR
Sarah Alsager is the president of Communique, Inc., a public relations and strategic communications agency specializing in health, nutrition, and agricultural messaging. With a bachelor's degree in communications, Sarah started in the tourism marketing industry but found agriculture and food communications to be her home. She worked for the Missouri Department of Agriculture, where she clocked many hours on the farm hearing from the passionate and dedicated men and women who grow and raise our food, fuel, and fiber. At Communique, Sarah uses that knowledge, paired with her ability to strategically and effectively promote the health and nutritional benefits of food, to communicate and connect with audiences.
Matthew Nagra, ND, is a passionate advocate for evidence-based nutrition as medicine. After struggling with various health issues throughout his childhood he turned to a plant-based diet, which improved nearly every health concern he had. Now through social media, public speaking, and eventually in his practice, his goal is to help others do the same. When he's not busy he enjoys playing sports, particularly soccer, and is always representing the plant-based lifestyle.
Dr. Nagra is a graduate of the CNS and eCornell Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate. Follow him on Instagram @dr.matthewnagra or visit his website at drmatthewnagra.com.
Disclosures:
Seed Oils: Understanding the Evidence and Communicating with Confidence awards 1.25 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s CPEU Prior Approval Program.
Soy Connection/Soy Nutrition Institute Global (Communique, Inc.) is the responsible provider for this activity.
Funding from non-CPE revenue for CPE planning, development, review, and/or presentation has been provided by Soy Connection/Soy Nutrition Institute Global. Commercial support has been provided by the United Soybean Board.
Available Credit
- 1.25 CDR