Trans fatty acids
trans fats, trans fatty acids, partially hydrogenated oil, partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, iTFAs, grasas trans
What it is
Trans fats are unsaturated fats from two sources. Some occur naturally in meat and dairy from ruminants. Industrial trans fats are made mainly by partially hydrogenating oils.
Why BOTIA flags it
High trans-fat intake raises LDL cholesterol and is associated with a higher risk of coronary heart disease and death. That evidence does not show a greater risk in women or prove hormonal disruption.
BOTIA CAN
- Detect 'partially hydrogenated' oils or explicit 'trans fat' declarations on labels.
- Explain the cardiovascular evidence and, when the label allows it, whether the source is industrial or natural.
BOTIA CANNOT
- Measure the exact amount of trans fats in the food if it is below standard regulatory disclosure thresholds.
- Determine if naturally occurring trans fats from dairy or meat are present versus industrial ones.