20/05/09 The trans fatty acids should be differentiated according to source, confirmed the World Health Organization (WHO) Scientific Update on Trans Fatty Acids (TFAs).

The TFAs that naturally occur in dairy products are different from those industrially produced. “Although ruminant TFAs cannot be removed entirely from the diet, their intake is low in most populations and to date there is no conclusive evidence supporting an association with CHD risks in the amounts usually consumed.” highlighted the WHO report*.

The conclusions also revealed that “controlled trials and observational studies provide concordant evidence that consumption of industrially produced TFA from partially hydrogenated oils adversely affects multiple cardiovascular risk factors and contribute significantly to increased risk of CHD events. They have no known health benefits and should be avoided.”

Commenting on the release of the WHO results, Christian Robert, IDF Director General said: “We strongly support these results. They are in line with the message IDF has been advocating already for many years that TFA should be differentiated according to source. In recent years, IDF has been particularly active in this area through stimulating research and a close dialogue with key organizations world-wide. This is an important step to help us to further enhance consumer’s confidence in our products.”