Nasty fat ban should extend to NZ - expert

Nasty trans fats could be lurking in crackers considered 'healthy'. Photo / Thinkstock

Trans fats lurk in lots of New Zealand foods and we need to follow the US' lead and phase out the nasty fat, says local health expert Lee-Anne Wann.

In a bid to fight fatal heart disease in the US, the Food and Drug Administration this week ordered food companies to phase out artificial trans fats in the next three years, saying they are a threat to public health.

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Scientists said there are no health benefits to the fats, which are used in processing food and in restaurants, usually to improve texture, shelf life or flavour.

They can raise levels of "bad" cholesterol and lower "good" cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease. Trans fats could increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, diabetes and other degenerative illnesses.

Many health professionals and doctors consider them to be the worst type of fat, said NZ nutritionist and fitness expert, Lee-Anne Wann.

"If our health really is a concern and if we have a goal of reducing obesity, diabetes, heart disease and other preventable illnesses then reducing and eliminating trans fats is something we need to do," Wann told the Herald online.

Trans fats are mostly found in junk food and deep-fried takeaway, she said, but could also sneak in to foods considered "healthy" such cereals, health bars, popcorn, cookies and crackers. They may also be lurking in foods we haven't even thought of like ready-made frosting, Wann warned.

Warriors fitness trainer and nutritionist Lee-Anne Wann. Photo / Chris Gorman

Following the US move to eliminate trans fats is a great start, but we need to consider cutting consumption of all highly processed foods to make headway in to improving the health of Kiwis, she said.

"Taking things one step at a time and empowering people through education and knowledge is key.

"Trans fat education and ultimate reduction is a good place to start in this process."

- nzherald.co.nz