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Summary
The report “The influence of Trans Fatty Acids on Health” from 1994
by the Danish Nutrition Council concluded that trans fatty acids in
the diet promote coronary heart disease at least as much as equivalent
amounts of saturated fats and probably more and that these fatty
acids may have adverse effects on the growth of the human fetus.
It was recommended that declaration of trans fatty acids in food
stuffs were considered in the EU. Danish margarine producers agreed
to reduce trans fatty acid concentrations in margarines produced in
Denmark.
Since 1994 the contribution of a high intake of trans fatty acids to
the risk of coronary heart disease has gained further support partly
due to the results from 4 large prospective population studies all
pointing in the same direction. Any deleterious effect of trans fatty
acids on the human fetus and newborns is not negated. The possible
effect of trans fatty acids on cancer has not yet been settled. Recent
findings justify further studies concerning the effect of trans fatty
acids on the development of allergic diseases in children.
The daily intake of trans fatty acids from partially hydrogenated
oils in Denmark was in 1994 approximately 2.5 grams and has since
decreased, mainly due to a reduction of the trans fatty acid content
in Danish margarines. Based on the results of a collection of various
food items in November 2000 with subsequent determination
of trans fatty acids it is likely that population groups with eating
habits including frequent intake of French fries, micro oven popcorn,
chocolate bars, fast food etc. yearly consume trans fatty acids
in amounts far exceeding recommended maximum levels. This is
possible partly due to import of fat or fat containing products with
a high concentration of partially hydrogenated fat and partly
because certain industrially produced margarines still have a trans
fatty acid content above 5%.
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