August 2002

Institute of Medicine Report Warns of
Dangers of Trans Fatty Acids

Washington - A report by the Institute of Medicine has warned that there is no minimum level of trans fatty acids that is safe to consume.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had put plans on hold to order manufacturers to disclose the trans fatty acid content of foods on packaging until the results of the Institute of Medicine report were issued.

An expert panel at the Institute of Medicine issued a detailed review of research into trans fatty acids, which is the type of fat commonly found in stick margarine, hydrogenated vegetable shortening, and foods that contain them, such as some pastries and fried foods. Trans fatty acids are reported to have an adverse effect on cholesterol levels, raising LDL and lowering HDL.

Though the panel had the option to declare a safe upper limit of daily trans fatty acid consumption, it declined to do so. “It is recommended that trans fatty acid consumption be as low as possible while consuming a nutritionally adequate diet,” the report stated.

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