Industrially produced trans fat, a lethal ingredient found in many processed foods, contributes to nearly 300,000 deaths annually from coronary heart disease. This toxic substance was originally developed in the early 20th century as a butter substitute and preservative, but its harmful effects on human health have been unequivocally established—there is no safe level of consumption.
The good news is that eliminating trans fat from our food supply is entirely feasible. Numerous countries have already made significant strides in adopting WHO-recommended policies to ban or limit trans fat, protecting nearly four billion people worldwide. Denmark, Lithuania, Poland, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand have been recognized for their exemplary efforts in implementing comprehensive trans fat policies that include rigorous monitoring and enforcement.
Despite these advancements, over four billion people globally remain unprotected from trans fat. Most of the deaths associated with trans fat occur in eight countries, primarily in Africa and the Asia Pacific. By expanding best-practice policies to these regions, we could prevent up to 90% of global trans fat-related deaths—a crucial step in combating noncommunicable diseases.
Studies across various countries, including Argentina, Kenya, Nigeria, the UK, US, and EU, demonstrate that replacing industrially produced trans fats with healthier alternatives does not affect food cost, taste, or availability. This underscores the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of transitioning to trans fat-free food production.
To achieve a trans fat-free world, three key actions are imperative:
Government Action: All countries should implement WHO-recommended policies, including setting a national limit of 2 grams of industrially produced trans fat per 100 grams of total fat in all foods, and enforcing a ban on partially hydrogenated oils—the primary source of artificial trans fat.
Monitoring and Enforcement: Governments must ensure strict monitoring and enforcement of trans fat limits and bans. WHO’s Trans Fat Free Validation Programme plays a crucial role in recognizing and encouraging countries’ efforts to eliminate trans fat.
Industry Responsibility: Food manufacturers must adhere to WHO guidelines by replacing trans fats with healthier fats and oils. They should refrain from selling trans fat-containing products in markets lacking regulations.
The global campaign to eliminate industrially produced trans fat represents a landmark effort to remove a significant dietary risk factor for heart disease on a global scale. With proven strategies and international cooperation, the pathway to a trans fat-free world is clear. Now is the time for leaders, both in government and industry, to prioritize public health and complete the task of safeguarding populations from this toxic food additive.