The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has reduced permitted trans-fat content in edible fats and oils in the country from 10 to 5 per cent. This is applicable to hydrogenated vegetable oils, margarine and fat spreads and interesterified vegetable fat. It is expected that in future, the allowed trans-fats in edible oils will be reduced to near zero levels. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has been advising countries to limit its consumption. It should be noted that the US in June recognised the use of partially hydrogenated oils as unsafe and banned its use by food product manufacturers within three years.

What is Trans Fat?

• Trans fats are commonly produced industrially from vegetable fats. It is used in margarine, snack food, packaged baked goods and frying fast food starting in the 1950s.
• Although trans fats are edible, consumption of trans fats has shown to increase the risk of coronary heart disease.
• Trans fat is abundant in fast food restaurants.
• Denmark became the first country to introduce laws strictly regulating the sale of many foods containing trans fats in March 2003, a move that effectively bans partially hydrogenated oils.

Test Your Knowledge

Who patented the hydrogenation of liquid oils in 1902?