Trans Fats: Health Hazard or Nutritional Necessity?
- vidyarthee2021
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
Global health experts have raised concerns over the UN's proposed blanket ban on trans fats, stating that it may unintentionally affect nutrition availability in developing countries.
What are Trans Fats?
Trans fatty acids (TFAs) are unsaturated fats that exist in two forms:
Naturally in meat and dairy.
Artificially through industrial hydrogenation (used in margarine, processed snacks, etc.).
Health Impacts
Increase bad cholesterol levels:
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL-C)
Very Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL)
Raise risk of heart attacks, stroke, obesity, type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
Known to trigger inflammation in the body.
Expert Concerns
A complete ban may reduce food options in low-resource settings.
Risks disrupting affordable food supply chains where alternatives to trans fats are costly or unavailable.
UPSC-Relevant Points
WHO's REPLACE initiative targets elimination of industrial TFAs by 2023.
India has set a 2% limit on trans fat content in oils and fats (FSSAI, 2022).
SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) links directly to reducing trans fat-related diseases.
Important for GS Paper 2 & 3: Public health, food safety, regulatory challenges.
UPSC Prelims MCQ
Q. With reference to trans fats, consider the following statements:
Trans fats occur only through industrial processing of oils.
They increase the levels of LDL and VLDL in the human body.
WHO aims to eliminate industrial trans fats globally.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect: Trans fats are also naturally present in animal products.
Statement 2 and 3 are correct: They raise bad cholesterol and are the target of WHO's elimination plan.
UPSC Mains Question (GS2 – Health)
Q. Trans fats are a silent contributor to non-communicable diseases in India. Discuss the public health challenges associated with trans fat consumption and the regulatory measures needed for its elimination.
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