Voluntary reduction of trans-fatty acids in Latin America and the Caribbean: current situation

Rev Panam Salud Publica. 2011 Feb;29(2):126-9. doi: 10.1590/s1020-49892011000200008.

Abstract

As part of the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Trans-Fat-Free Americas initiative, 12 representatives from food industries in Latin America and the Caribbean signed a declaration stating their intention to voluntarily eliminate industrially produced trans-fatty acids (TFA) from the Americas. A year later, in order to document the extent of the voluntary reduction, each declarant was asked to describe all reformulations and reductions in the TFA content of their products. After up to six requests for data, only three declarants provided such information in detail, and three others offered an overall summary of their reformulations. Additionally, three declarants reported the barriers that limit this process: availability of oil substitutes, cost, and consumers' sensory acceptance. The content of TFA and saturated fat in the food supply in the Americas should be regulated and strictly monitored in order to adequately evaluate a reduction of TFA in the region.

MeSH terms

  • Caribbean Region
  • Consumer Behavior
  • Coronary Disease / etiology
  • Coronary Disease / prevention & control
  • Dietary Fats* / standards
  • Food Analysis
  • Food Industry* / economics
  • Food Industry* / organization & administration
  • Food Supply / standards*
  • Health Promotion
  • Humans
  • Latin America
  • Public Health
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Trans Fatty Acids* / adverse effects
  • Voluntary Programs* / statistics & numerical data
  • Voluntary Programs* / trends

Substances

  • Dietary Fats
  • Trans Fatty Acids