The Food and Drug Administration has tentatively determined that partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), which are the primary dietary source of industrially produced trans fatty acids, or trans fat, are not generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for any use in food based on current scientific evidence. The Academy plans to comment in support of FDA's effort, which is consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, to reduce artificial trans fats from the food supply. (statement taken from eatright.org)
Being a Registered Dietitian, I am in 100% support of the FDA, as well as my colleagues in the Academy. There are a few ingredients that I always avoid and two of them include trans fats and partially hydrogenated oils. Some popular foods that will be affected include: cookies, crackers, refrigerated dough and pie crusts, microwave popcorn, margarine, frozen pizza, and coffee creamers.
These unhealthy fats increase the risk of stroke and coronary heart disease, and raise LDL (bad cholesterol). Basically a partially hydrogenated oil is taking a liquid fat and making it solid (therefore changing its chemical composition) to improve shelf life. Also this is the type of fat that adds crispiness and crunch to crackers and cookies.
What do you think of this FDA mandate?? Do you agree?? What ingredients or foods do you try to avoid???
Being a Registered Dietitian, I am in 100% support of the FDA, as well as my colleagues in the Academy. There are a few ingredients that I always avoid and two of them include trans fats and partially hydrogenated oils. Some popular foods that will be affected include: cookies, crackers, refrigerated dough and pie crusts, microwave popcorn, margarine, frozen pizza, and coffee creamers.
These unhealthy fats increase the risk of stroke and coronary heart disease, and raise LDL (bad cholesterol). Basically a partially hydrogenated oil is taking a liquid fat and making it solid (therefore changing its chemical composition) to improve shelf life. Also this is the type of fat that adds crispiness and crunch to crackers and cookies.
What do you think of this FDA mandate?? Do you agree?? What ingredients or foods do you try to avoid???