Trans Fats Are Making Their Debut on Food Labels

Trans Fats Are Making Their Debut on Food Labels

March 16, 2005

The latest newcomer to the list of dietary fats on the Nutrition Facts Panel is trans fat. Some food manufacturers are already listing trans fat on their labels, and by January 2006 all food labels must indicate how much trans fat is in the product.

A small amount of the trans fat we eat is found naturally in animal foods, while the majority of the trans fat in our diet comes from the addition of hydrogen to liquid oils, making them more solid—the process called hydrogenation. Like saturated fat, consumption of trans fats raises LDL cholesterol—so-called “bad cholesterol”—increasing your risk of heart disease.

Until trans fat is listed on all food labels, remember trans fat is found in some margarines, snack foods like chips, baked goods like cookies and cake and fried foods. Be aware of trans fat, and also enjoy fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean sources of protein, as well as foods like some margarines and chips that are trans fat-free. Your heart will love you for it.

Produced by ADA’s Public Relations Team

To view previous Daily Tips, click here.

Print Version