Trans fatty acids

24 October 2006

Trans fatty acids – also known as trans fats – are formed when liquid vegetable oils are partially hydrogenated or ‘hardened’ for use as spreads such as margarine, cooking fats for deep-frying and shortening for baking . Low levels of trans fatty acids are also found naturally in the fat of ruminant animals.

Are trans fatty acids present in foods sold in Australia and New Zealand?

Yes. Through our dietary modelling work, we have found that Australians and New Zealanders consume relatively low amounts of trans fatty acids compared with people in other countries.

What are the health implications of consuming trans fatty acids?

Foods high in trans or saturated fatty acids increase blood cholesterol levels, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease.   We are currently reviewing potential health risks associated with levels of trans fats consumed by Australians and New Zealanders.   The review, to be published on the FSANZ website, will discuss risk management options .

Are trans fatty acids identified on food labels?

Trans fatty acid contents must be declared if a nutrition claim is made in respect of cholesterol or saturated, trans, polyunsaturated or monounsaturated fatty acids; or omega-3, omega-6 or omega-9 fatty acids.   Some food manufacturers voluntarily list the amount of trans fatty acids in their products.

We are proposing to allow manufacturers to use a claim that a food ‘low in trans fatty acids and saturated fat can reduce the risk of heart disease’ when we introduce a new regulation on health claims on foods in 2007. This will assist consumers to make healthier choices and encourage the food industry to develop healthier products.

What can I do to reduce harmful fat in my diet?

You can take action for yourselves and your families by following dietary guidelines that recommend limiting trans fat and saturated fat intakes.   The following link to the Australian government’s Department of Health and Ageing may be useful: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/healthyactive/publishing.nsf/content/good-bad-fat .   Nutrition information panels may be used to guide healthier food choices.

Is government taking action to reduce trans fatty acids in food?

The Australian Government has set up a National Collaboration on Trans Fats that includes representatives from the Australian National Heart Foundation, the Australian Food and Grocery Council, the Dietitians Association of Australia and FSANZ.  

The primary aim of this group is to work cooperatively in reducing the amount of trans fatty acids in the Australian food supply without an associated increase in the amount of saturated fat.   The group will promote wide implementation of current industry and public health initiatives for reducing the levels of trans fatty acids and increasing consumer awareness and understanding.

24 October 2006