Canada is a leading nation when it comes to eliminating harmful trans fats

Jan 24, 2023 | Canadian News, News

The World Health Organization lists Canada as one of just 43 countries that have implemented best practice policies for eliminating industrially-produced trans fat.

“Trans fats have been phased out of processed foods so they are no longer a significant concern in Canada,” said Joe Schwarcz, Director of McGill University’s Office for Science and Society.

According to a new report from the World Health Organization five billion people are at an increased risk of heart disease and death due to trans fat.

As a best practice, the organization suggests either banning partially hydrogenated oils or limiting industrially produced trans fat to two grams per 100 grams of fat.

Governments are being urged to follow Canada’s lead and do more to ban industrially produced fats, which have increased the risk of heart disease and death.

“Trans fats have been linked to cardiovascular problems and there is good evidence for reducing them in the diet,” Schwarcz said.

The removal of trans fat includes both Canadian and imported foods, as well as food prepared in any food service establishment such as the many food services at Humber College.

“Most of the baked goods on campus are produced through Cartwell’s, our food service provider,” said Susan Joseph, program coordinator of Humber’s Baking and Pastry Arts Management program.

“We use a combination of Canadian butter and non-hydrogenated vegetable shortening,” she said.

Unlike ordinary shortening, Joseph says all vegetable shortening is not hydrogenated, has zero grams of trans fat, and is made from palm oil, which is naturally cholesterol-free and high in monounsaturated fats, making it healthier for your body than trans fat.

Humber College’s website states the campus’ food service outlets offer students, staff and guests a diverse selection of high quality balanced meals daily.

“It is our goal to ensure your dining experience is enjoyable and fulfilling. In addition to popular retail food brands, there are food options on campus for every lifestyle and culture,” Humber said on its website.

If students are interested in what kind of food is being offered on campus Humber College offers a nutrition calculator so that students can see the nutritional facts of food on campus.