admin In a significant development, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued its first-ever certificates recognising substantial advancements in the elimination of industrially produced trans fatty acids (iTFA). Poland, Saudi Arabia, Lithuania, Denmark, and Thailand are being praised for their exemplary best practice policies, which effectively target iTFA elimination, bolstered by strong monitoring and enforcement frameworks.
Global Progress in Trans Fat Elimination
While the WHO’s 2018 target to entirely eradicate iTFA from the global food supply by the end of 2023 fell short, there has been commendable progress worldwide. In 2023 alone, seven countries, including Egypt, Mexico, Moldova, Nigeria, North Macedonia, the Philippines, and Ukraine, implemented new best-practice policies. The cumulative efforts have resulted in a total of 53 countries now having effective policies, impacting 46% of the global population, a significant leap from 6% just five years ago.
Trans-fatty acids are known to pose health risks, including an increased likelihood of heart attacks and heart disease-related deaths. Foods high in iTFA, such as fried foods, cakes, and ready meals, are often laden with sugar, fat, and salt, offering no known health benefits.
WHO Advocates for Global Elimination of iTFA
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasised the critical role of implementation in ensuring the success of policies. Denmark, Lithuania, Poland, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand were commended for their leading efforts and urged other nations to follow suit.
With 3.7 billion people, or 46% of the global population, benefiting from the improved food environment resulting from iTFA policies, an estimated 183,000 lives are expected to be saved annually. Dr. Tom Frieden, President and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives, highlighted the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of iTFA elimination, urging governments and the food industry to continue their commitment.
A Revised Target: Global iTFA Elimination by 2025
In light of recent achievements, WHO proposes a revised target for virtual elimination of iTFA globally by 2025. The proposal includes passing best-practice elimination policies in countries accounting for at least 90% of the total global iTFA burden. The organisation remains steadfast in supporting countries on this journey, with the next application cycle for the iTFA elimination validation program set to open in March 2024. As the world collectively works towards a trans fat-free future, the focus is not only on policy adoption but also on diligent monitoring and enforcement to ensure sustained health benefits.
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