A&W Canada Seed Oil Report Card
Based on our menu research, A&W Canada cooks with: non-hydrogenated, high-oleic/low-linolenic canola oil (trans-fat-free) for all deep-fried items. Across the 28 menu items we analyzed, it averages 4.0g estimated PUFA per item, earning a seed-oil grade of A (Low Risk).
Safest Orders at A&W Canada
Learn this once: a salad with grilled protein and the dressing left off is nearly always the lowest seed oil order anywhere. So the list below sticks to real meals, salads included, never just a water.
Cleanest full order: Mama Burger + Side Salad + Iced Coffee, 6.0g total
| Item | PUFA |
|---|---|
| Apple Turnover | 2.0g |
| Buddy Burger | 3.0g |
| Mama Burger | 4.0g |
| Uncle Burger | 4.0g |
| Bacon & Egger | 4.0g |
What to Avoid at A&W Canada
| Item | PUFA |
|---|---|
| Grandpa Burger | 9.0g |
| Papa Burger | 7.0g |
| Beyond Meat Burger | 6.0g |
| Chubby Chicken Burger | 6.0g |
| Spicy Habanero Chicken Burger | 6.0g |
Frequently asked
Does A&W Canada use seed oils?
Based on our menu research, A&W Canada cooks with: non-hydrogenated, high-oleic/low-linolenic canola oil (trans-fat-free) for all deep-fried items. Across the 28 menu items we analyzed, it averages 4.0g estimated PUFA per item, earning a seed-oil grade of A (Low Risk).
What oil does A&W Canada cook with?
Our research indicates: non-hydrogenated, high-oleic/low-linolenic canola oil (trans-fat-free) for all deep-fried items. Preparation can vary by location, so treat PUFA numbers as estimates.
Does A&W Canada use beef tallow?
No. Our research indicates A&W Canada cooks with non-hydrogenated, high-oleic/low-linolenic canola oil (trans-fat-free) for all deep-fried items, not beef tallow. For chains that fry in tallow or other real fats, see Tallow Watch.
Is A&W Canada seed oil free?
No. Our research indicates A&W Canada cooks with non-hydrogenated, high-oleic/low-linolenic canola oil (trans-fat-free) for all deep-fried items, which includes seed oils. See the lower-PUFA orders above for the cleanest picks.
What is the safest thing to order at A&W Canada?
Apple Turnover is the lowest-PUFA item we analyzed at A&W Canada, at an estimated 2.0g PUFA. See the Safest Orders list on this page for more options.
What should I avoid at A&W Canada?
Grandpa Burger is the highest-PUFA item we analyzed at A&W Canada, at an estimated 9.0g PUFA. Fried items and creamy, mayo-based sauces are usually the heaviest.
What are seed oils?
Seed oils — canola, soybean, sunflower, corn, and similar vegetable oils — are extracted from seeds using high heat and chemical solvents. They are very high in polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), which are unstable at cooking temperatures and can oxidize easily. Many health-conscious eaters choose to minimize seed oils and prefer foods cooked in beef tallow, butter, coconut oil, or olive oil instead. This page shows estimated PUFA grams per menu item to help you make more informed choices. These are estimates — actual values vary by preparation and location. Curious why people avoid them? Read the evidence.
Compare other chains
Tim Hortons · Wendy's · White Spot · Booster Juice · Boston Pizza · Burger King
See where A&W Canada lands on the full Seed Oil Index, or check which chains cook in real fats on Tallow Watch. Wondering about a specific dish instead? The Is It Seed Oil food guide answers it for 200+ everyday foods, and the distributor oils page covers what independent restaurants fry in.