Industrial trans-fats are toxic compounds that are recognised as the cause of cardiovascular and other related diseases. They are formed during the hydro generation of vegetable oils and other processes such as heating of oil at high temperatures. Industrial trans-fats are largely present in partially hydrogenated fats such as margarine and bakery shortenings (used in the preparation of bakery products) and in Vanaspati (used in the preparation of sweets and deep-fried foods).
FSSAI states that India is committed to the elimination of industrial trans-fats in fats, oils, and in foods containing fats/oils in a phased manner. The trans-fat content in fats and oils has already been limited to 5% and the notification to further reduce it to 3% by 2021 and to 2% by 2022 is under process. The regulation is also being extended to food products having fats/oils. Food establishments like bakeries, sweet shops, and food outlets are encouraged to use healthier fat/oil options, thereby reducing the trans-fat content in the foods.
Further the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018 have been notified on 19 November 2018, which specify the trans-fat free claim can be made on the foods which contain 0.2 gm trans-fat per 100gm/100ml.The food establishments which use trans-fat free fats/oils and do not have industrial trans-fat more than 0.2 g per 100 g of food, in compliance with the regulation on Claims and Advertisements, 2018 can display “Trans Fat Free” logo in their outlets and on their food products. The logo with the specifications has been given below. The use of “Trans Fat Free” logo is voluntary. It will be the responsibility of the Food Business Operators to comply with the requirements as specified in the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018 in cases wherein a claim to this effect is made.
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