Eliminating trans fats | Political Economy

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ood is more than mere sustenance. It embodies our culture, binds communities and reflects care. Food in Pakistan plays an important role in our daily lives, celebrations and traditions. However, behind the rich flavors and aromas of our foods lies a serious concern: the widespread presence of industrially produced trans fatty acids (iTFAs) and partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) in our food supply. These harmful substances wreak havoc on public health, fueling an alarming increase in heart disease, diabetes and other chronic health conditions.

The statistics are scary. Pakistan is among the top 15 countries in terms of the burden of coronary heart disease, a condition closely related to trans fat consumption. About 200,000 lives are lost every year in Pakistan due to heart related diseases. With over 30 million adults, Pakistan also bears the highest global burden of diabetes. This situation requires immediate action. A policy of best practices advocated by the World Health Organization recommends a hybrid approach.

The hybrid approach combines regulatory limitations on ITFA and legislative restrictions on PHOs, charting a practical and effective course for transforming Pakistan’s food landscape. By limiting ITFA to less than two percent of total fat in all foods and banning the production and distribution of PHO, Pakistan can directly address this critical public health challenge.

This strategy is important for several reasons. Limiting industrial trans fats is consistent with global best practices, ensuring that no more than two percent of the total fat in any food item comes from iTFAs.

At the same time, banning PHOs, the primary source of trans fats in processed foods, targets the root cause, forcing manufacturers to adopt healthier alternatives. This two-pronged approach not only secures the food supply but also highlights an unwavering commitment to public health.

Pakistan is among the top 15 countries in terms of the burden of coronary heart disease, a condition closely related to trans fat consumption. About 200,000 lives are lost every year in Pakistan due to heart related diseases. With over 30 million adults, Pakistan also bears the highest global burden of diabetes.

The urgency of this issue has mobilized organizations such as Pakistan Youth Change Advocate, Center for Peace and Development Initiatives and HeartFile to launch the Transform Pakistan campaign. Food authorities including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Safety and Halal Food Authority have pledged to support the initiative. Apart from raising awareness about the health risks of iTFAs, these campaigns call for decisive policy actions.

It is important that we understand that food safety is integral to public health. Behind every statistic lies a human story—families devastated by premature heart attacks and communities overwhelmed by the emotional and economic burden of chronic illness. Behind the figures are faces. Their struggle calls for immediate and meaningful action.

The way forward for Pakistan is clear. It must adopt a hybrid approach to eliminating harmful industrial trans fats from our diets. This will not only save lives, but also reduce health care costs and productivity losses caused by diseases caused by trans fats.

Achieving this goal requires a collective effort. Policy makers must prioritize public health over corporate profits. Civil society should continue advocacy efforts. Media outlets should amplify calls for change and help mobilize public support. The food industry should adapt to healthier practices.

The public must become informed consumers and demand transparency and accountability from food manufacturers.

The journey is long, but with determination and support, we can achieve the milestone of a trans-fat-free food supply chain.

The author is Director (Technical) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Safety and Halal Food Authority.