NEW DELHI: Central government is planning to impose ban on the unhealthy Trans fat oil. In the first phase, the Indian Food and Safety Standard Authority will control the amount of Trans fatty acid. Talking to Keralakaumudi, FSSAI chief Pawan Agarwal said that they are planning to get rid of Trans fat phase by phase. The authority will soon issue a circular that insists to keep the Trans fat in food products under 2%. They will also start an awareness campaign named ‘Heart Attack Rewind’. The nation will thus get closer WHO’s aim of Trans fat free food.

Why is Trans Fat used ?

Trans fat is used for improving the taste and preservation of foods. It is made by mixing Hydrogen with vegetable oil. Vanaspathi, which is widely used in Biriyani and bakery foods is an example of Trans fat.

Cheaper alternative

Trans fat is cheaper than butter and ghee. Bakery shortening and margarin is rich with Trans fat. Pastry is another example.

Health Threat

Trans fat will increase amount of LDL in a body. “Trans fat can lead to heart attack, cancer, diabetes and other deadly diseases”, says Dr. Nanditha Murukutla-a representative of WHO.

FSSAI’s Instructions

• Don’t use hydrogenated oil for cooking
• Trans fat content above 0.2 grams is harmful
• It is harmful to reuse already cooked oil
• Use natural oil, butter and ghee