A trans world journey

Steen Stender (Invited author), Jørn Dyerberg (Invited author), Anette Bysted (Invited author), Torben Leth (Invited author), Arne Astrup (Invited author)

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articleResearchpeer-review

Abstract

A high intake of industrially produced trans fatty acids (IP-TFA) is associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), and a daily intake as low as possible is required to minimize health risks. To achieve this at the individual level in Denmark, legislation limited IP-TFA in foods to a maximum of 2% of fat content from 2004. We assessed the potential exposure of consumers to IP-TFA by analysing popular foods in Denmark, and in 25 other countries. Fifty-five servings of French fries and chicken nuggets, 87 packages of microwave popcorn, and 393 samples of biscuits/cakes/wafers with "partially hydrogenated vegetable fat" listed high on the food label were bought between November 2004, and February 2006. The content of IP-TFA was analysed by standardized methodology. We defined a "high trans menu" as a large size serving of French fries and nuggets, 100 g of microwave popcorn, and 100 g of biscuits/wafers/cakes. The amounts of IP-TFA in a "high trans menu" was 30 g in 2001 in Denmark, but was reduced to less than 12 in 2005. By contrast, a "high trans menu" provided more than 20 g in 17 out of 18 countries, with Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland, Bulgaria, and USA, ranking highest with 42, 40 38, 37, and 36 g, respectively. The legislation in Denmark has reduced the exposure of IP-TFA at the individual level without noticeable effect on availability, price. and quality of foods previously containing high amounts of IP-TFA. The findings of high concentrations of IP-TFA in popular foods outside Denmark suggest that millions of people inside and outside EU have intakes of IP-TFA that may increase their risk of CHD. The Danish experience demonstrates that this risk can be eliminated.
Original languageEnglish
JournalAtherosclerosis. Supplement
Volume7
Issue number2
Pages (from-to)47-52
ISSN1567-5688
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2006
EventThe 1st International Symposium on Trans Fatty Aids and Health - Rungsted Kyst, Denmark
Duration: 11 Sept 200513 Sept 2005
Conference number: 1

Conference

ConferenceThe 1st International Symposium on Trans Fatty Aids and Health
Number1
Country/TerritoryDenmark
CityRungsted Kyst
Period11/09/200513/09/2005

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