Trans fats are created through the process of hydrogenating vegetable oil. This process allows liquid oils to last longer and also converts liquid oils into solids. Although all food manufacturers are required to list the amount of saturated fat in their products, it hasn’t been until recently that the FDA, pressured by the Institute of Medicine, has considered a mandate for companies to list trans fats. However, until consumers are able to begin viewing this labeling, there are some ways of avoiding trans fats. In general, deep-fried foods, commercial baked goods and many prepared foods that contain shortening contain trans fats. Consumers should look for ingredients and their placement within the ingredient list on foods that list hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oil as these also contain trans fats. If these ingredients occur higher on the ingredient list, the food contains a higher level of trans fat.

Spring 2003