Trans fats are a type of unsaturated fat that is responsible for increasing the level of bad cholesterol in the body. Unlike other fats, they do not serve any purpose and are harmful.

Trans fats can be naturally found in food items such as beef, lamb, and dairy products. They are also produced through a process called hydrogenation, which involves adding hydrogen to liquid oils to solidify them and increase their shelf life.

Many food manufacturers use trans fats in order to increase the shelf life of their products, to improve the taste and texture of food items, and to reduce the cost of production.

Why are Trans Fats Harmful?

Trans fats are harmful because they increase the level of bad cholesterol in the body, which can lead to a wide range of health problems. These health problems include heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

In addition, trans fats may also be harmful to the brain and nervous system, and may cause inflammation and other health problems. Because of the negative health effects of trans fats, many health experts recommend that people avoid them as much as possible.

The FDA Sets a Deadline to Remove Trans Fats from Food

In 2015, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a ruling that would require food manufacturers to remove trans fats from their products. The deadline for compliance with this ruling is set for January 1, 2020.

This ruling will effectively ban the use of trans fats in food items, unless companies can prove that their use of trans fats is safe for human consumption.

What Does the FDA’s Ruling Mean?

The FDA’s ruling means that food manufacturers will no longer be able to use trans fats in their products, unless they can prove that their use of trans fats is safe for human consumption.

This will help to improve the health of Americans by reducing their intake of harmful trans fats. The ruling will also help to promote public health by reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems caused by trans fats.

What are the Benefits of the FDA’s Ruling?

The FDA’s ruling has many benefits. First and foremost, it will help to improve the health of Americans by reducing their intake of harmful trans fats.

This will reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems caused by trans fats. In addition, the ruling will also help to promote public health by reducing the overall incidence of these health problems.

Finally, the ruling will also help to promote a healthier food environment by encouraging food manufacturers to use healthier ingredients in their products.

What Should You Do?

To reduce your intake of trans fats, it is important to read food labels carefully. Look for foods that do not contain trans fats, and try to avoid foods that contain hydrogenated oils, shortening, or margarine.

Instead, choose healthy fats such as olive oil, nuts, and avocado, and incorporate healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein into your diet. By making these small changes, you can help to improve your health and reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems caused by trans fats.

Conclusion

The FDA’s ruling to ban trans fats from food items is a positive step toward promoting public health and reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems caused by trans fats.

By complying with this ruling, food manufacturers can help to create a healthier food environment that promotes healthier lifestyles for Americans.