Experts for trans-fat-free food to safeguard public health

FE Team | Published: February 01, 2024 22:40:32

Health experts at a webinar have said there is no alternative to ensuring trans-fat-free food to safeguard public health as Bangladesh ranks among the countries with the highest burden of deaths from trans-fat induced heart diseases, reports UNB.
They also voiced concern that excessive amounts of trans fat in food are unsafe and remain one of the leading risk factors for various non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, in the country.
The experts also deplored that although the government has passed the "Controlling Trans-Fatty Acid in Foodstuffs Regulation 2021", its implementation has not commenced in full swing yet.
They urged the authorities concerned to take for the speedy implementation of the trans-fat limiting regulation for protecting public health.
Research and advocacy organisation PROGGA (Knowledge for Progress) with support from Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI) arranged the webinar titled "Trans-fat-free Safe Food to Safeguard Public Health and the Way Forward" on the occasion of National Food Safety Day on Thursday.
The National Food Safety Day will be observed on Friday with the theme "Shastho, Pushti o Shomriddhi Chai, Nirapod Khadder Bikolpo Nai" (Health, Nutrition and Prosperity, Safe Food Remains the Only Key).
Dr Nazma Shaheen, professor of Institute of Nutrition and Food Science of Dhaka University, said, "Excessive amounts of trans fats were found in bottled soybean oil in a recent study. To regulate the amount of trans fat in food items, the capacity of BFSA, BSTI and other relevant authorities must be increased. We have already undertaken research initiatives to identify the ways to regulate the level of trans fat in food."
Dr Mohammad Mostafa, member of Public Health and Nutrition, Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA) said they have prioritised the reduction of trans fats in edible oil. "We're hopeful about finding a solution soon after discussing it with the relevant stakeholders."