Trans fats, also known as trans-fatty acids (TFA), are lurking in your diet, and the consequences are dire. They are unsaturated fatty acids originating from both industrial and natural sources, and their impact on global health is staggering.

According to recent data, over 278,000 deaths worldwide each year can be attributed to the intake of industrially produced trans fat. These artery-clogging substances significantly elevate the risk of heart attacks and premature death, making them a critical public health concern.

Industrially produced trans fat hides in everyday food items such as margarine, vegetable shortening, Vanaspati ghee, fried foods, and baked goods like crackers, biscuits, and pies. Even street and restaurant foods aren't spared, often containing unhealthy levels of these harmful fats. What's more, trans fat can also be naturally present in meat and dairy products from ruminant animals like cows, sheep, and goats, compounding the health risks.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends limiting trans fat consumption to less than 1% of total energy intake, which translates to less than 2.2 grams per day for a 2000-calorie diet. High intake of trans fats significantly increases the risk of death from any cause by 34%, coronary heart disease deaths by 28%, and coronary heart disease by 21%, underscoring their detrimental effects on health.

Governments play a pivotal role in combating this health threat by creating environments conducive to healthy dietary practices. WHO advocates for the elimination of industrially produced trans fat from the food supply, offering a comprehensive REPLACE action package to guide policymakers in this endeavor. The package outlines practical steps for promoting the use of healthier fats and oils while phasing out trans fats through regulatory measures and robust monitoring systems.

Replacing trans fats with healthier alternatives is not only feasible but also cost-effective. Countries can save lives and reduce cardiovascular disease burden by implementing best-practice interventions, such as setting mandatory limits on trans fat content in foods or banning the use of partially hydrogenated oils, a major source of trans fat, altogether.

Individuals can also take proactive steps to reduce their trans fat intake by avoiding foods containing partially hydrogenated oils and moderating their consumption of meat and dairy products from ruminant animals. While governments bear the primary responsibility for protecting citizens from the harmful effects of trans fats, individual actions can complement broader efforts to promote healthier diets and lifestyles.

WHO continues to lead global efforts to eliminate industrially produced trans fat, monitoring countries' progress and providing support to facilitate policy implementation. By working together to eradicate this silent killer from our food supply, we can safeguard public health and save countless lives worldwide.