Trans fatty acids, commonly present in partially hydrogenated oils or foods containing these oils as ingredients, have been linked to an elevated risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic health conditions.
On World Heart Day, the TRANSFORM Pakistan campaign, in collaboration with partners including the Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination (MoNHSRC), Pakistan Youth Change Advocates (PYCA), Center for Peace and Development Initiative (CPDI), and Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), issued a collective statement urging the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) to take immediate action in setting a national mandatory limit of 2 grams of trans fatty acids (TFA) per 100 grams of fats in all food items.
The campaign partners emphasized their commitment to work closely with PSQCA and other stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation and enforcement of crucial TFA limits across all dietary sources in Pakistan.
“On this World Heart Day, we call upon PSQCA to act swiftly and decisively to protect the heart health of all Pakistanis. Together, we can make a significant impact on reducing the burden of heart disease and improving the overall health of our nation.”
Trans fatty acids, commonly present in partially hydrogenated oils or foods containing these oils as ingredients, have been linked to an elevated risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic health conditions.
Their prevalence in daily diets poses a significant threat to the well-being of the nation. The statement underlines that establishing a national mandatory limit for TFA in all foods is an essential step towards safeguarding the health and well-being of all Pakistanis.
In 2022, the Council of Common Interests (CCI) designated PSQCA as the primary authority for setting standards for all food and beverages throughout Pakistan, with all provinces mandated to adopt them.
Following significant advocacy by civil society organizations and concerted efforts by the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation, and Coordination, a 2 per cent limit was imposed by PSQCA for banaspati, margarine, bakery fats, biscuits, rusks, and bakery wares in June 2023.
However, despite this commendable measure, numerous TFA-rich food items like deep-fried street foods, noodles, pasta, chocolates, ice creams, and various types of ultra-processed foods and snacks remain unregulated.
The statement also highlights the exemplary policy measures adopted by numerous countries worldwide. It emphasizes, “The harmful effects of TFA on cardiovascular health are well-documented, and many countries have already taken proactive measures to limit their consumption. We commend those efforts but strongly urge PSQCA to cover all foods to adopt the best policy practice through a single regulation, as it will contribute to a healthier Pakistan and save thousands of lives every year.”