Trans Fats in Food—Banned, But Still Present
Trans fats have long been linked to heart disease and other serious health risks. As a result, many countries, including the U.S., have banned them. However, due to loopholes in labeling laws and existing stock in circulation, trans fats may still be sneaking into your food. Here’s what you need to know about trans fats, where they hide, and how to avoid them.
What Are Trans Fats?
Trans fats are unsaturated fats that have been chemically altered to stay solid at room temperature, extending the shelf life of processed foods. The primary source of industrial trans fats has been partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs). These artificial fats were commonly found in margarine, baked goods, snack foods, and fried foods.
The FDA’s Ban on Trans Fats
In 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially banned the use of PHOs in food products due to their strong link to heart disease, stroke, and other health issues. This was a major victory for public health, as numerous studies have shown that trans fats raise “bad” LDL cholesterol levels and lower “good” HDL cholesterol levels, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
However, while the ban significantly reduced trans fat consumption, they haven’t been completely eradicated. Here’s why:
1. Partially Hydrogenated Oils (PHOs) in Circulation
Although the FDA banned PHOs in 2018, foods produced before this ban went into effect may still be circulating, especially items with long shelf lives. This means that some older processed foods could still contain these harmful fats.
2. Labeling Loophole
The FDA allows foods with less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving to be labeled as having “0 grams trans fat.” This labeling loophole can be misleading because small amounts of trans fat can still be present in packaged foods without being listed. While less than 0.5 grams may seem insignificant, consuming multiple servings of these foods could quickly add up.
3. Imported and Processed Foods
Some processed foods, especially those that come from countries where trans fats haven’t been fully banned, can still contain trans fats. Items like margarine, baked goods, and snack foods, particularly those with extended shelf lives, may still include trace amounts of trans fats.
How to Avoid Trans Fats
Even though the use of trans fats has been dramatically reduced, it’s important to remain vigilant when shopping for packaged foods. Here are a few tips to protect yourself from hidden trans fats:
- Check Ingredient Lists: Always read the ingredients on packaged foods and avoid products that list “partially hydrogenated oils,” even if the label claims “0 grams trans fat.”
- Limit Processed and Imported Foods: Be cautious with imported goods or highly processed foods, especially if they have long shelf lives, as they may still contain trans fats.
- Cook at Home: One of the best ways to avoid trans fats is to prepare meals at home using whole, fresh ingredients. This allows you to control the type and quality of fats used.
Conclusion: Staying Informed
While the FDA’s ban has greatly reduced the amount of trans fats in our food supply, these unhealthy fats haven’t completely disappeared. By understanding labeling loopholes and making informed choices, you can protect your heart and overall health from the dangers of trans fats.
