Rebuilding the pyramids - goodnews - governments hope to reduce consumption of trans fatty acids, United States, Canada - Brief Article

Concerns about trans fatty acids have increased in recent years as more studies show that they increase the risk of heart disease. As a result, the government wants to see recommendations for increased intake of omega-3 oils from fish and other sources.

Trans fats form when vegetable oil is heated in the presence of hydrogen. Hydrogenation hardens them at room temperature to create products such as shortening and many commercial snack foods.

Unlike other fats, trans fats are hidden fats. They are not labeled on food packages, although this may be changed soon by the US Food and Drug Administration. The agency is considering requiring companies to list on labels the amount of harmful fats in their products. Canada already plans to pass this type of legislation.

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