Voluntary reduction of trans-fatty acids in Latin America and the Caribbean: Current situation

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

2-1-2011

Journal

Revista Panamericana de Salud Publica/Pan American Journal of Public Health

Volume

29

Issue

2

DOI

10.1590/S1020-49892011000200008

Keywords

Caribbean region; Food industry; Latin America; Trans fatty acids

Abstract

As part of the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Trans-Fat- Free Americas initiative, 12 representatives from food industries in Latin America and the Caribbean signed a declaration stating their intention to voluntarily eliminate industrially produced trans-fatty acids (TFA) from the Americas. A year later, in order to document the extent of the voluntary reduction, each declarant was asked to describe all reformulations and reductions in the TFA content of their products. After up to six requests for data, only three declarants provided such information in detail, and three others offered an overall summary of their reformulations. Additionally, three declarants reported the barriers that limit this process: Availability of oil substitutes, cost, and consumers' sensory acceptance. The content of TFA and saturated fat in the food supply in the Americas should be regulated and strictly monitored in order to adequately evaluate a reduction of TFA in the region. © 2011 Organización Panamericana de la Salud.

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