Trans fats

Transfats what are they?

When liquid oil is turned into solid fat, a process called ‘hydrogenation’, trans fats may be formed.
Trans fats have no nutritional benefit and may actually be harmful, and it is possible that they may be worse for you than saturated fats. The effect on your body is to raise the type of cholesterol that increases your risk of developing heart disease.

It is best that we reduce our intake of fats altogether, but especially saturated, hydrogenated or trans fats. These are found in foods such as biscuits, pastry, cakes, crisps, hard cheese, butter and foods containing coconut or palm oil.

What foods are they found in?

Margarines, crackers, cookies, snack food and foods made with or fried in partially hydrogenated oils.

How do I know if food contains trans fats?

Have a look at the food labels under saturated fat on the nutrition facts section.

By law, from January 2006, any item of food containing more than 0.5grams of trans fats has to be detailed.