Nutrition Q & A
What is Trans-fat?
While there are some naturally occurring trans-fats in animal foods, most of the trans-fat in our food system is created through a process called hydrogenation. This process takes liquid fats (oils) and makes them more solid, increasing their shelf-stability. Trans-fat can increase LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and increase the risk of heart disease.
Trans-fat is found in all products that contain hydrogenated or partially-hydrogenated oils. However, only foods that contain >0.5 grams of trans-fat per serving are required to list this on their food label.
According to the Dietary Guidelines, Americans should keep their intake of trans-fat as low as possible.
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