India is undergoing rapid dietary transition. High economic growth has resulted in a burgeoning middle-class having greater access to commercially available foods, including fried and baked food items. Most of these foods contain high amounts of Trans Fatty Acids (TFAs), particularly if cooked in vanaspati (partially hydrogenated vegetable oils) which is often preferred for its low cost and longer shelf life. TFAs can adversely affect cholesterol levels, predispose the individual to diabetes, coronary heart disease and may also affect many of his body organs.
All food items prepared, baked or fried by using Vanaspati/Margarine contain TFA. These include: Cakes and Pastries; Patty, Rusk; Fried Aloo Chaat , AlooTikki (prepared in ‘Vanaspati’), Sweets (Mithai) (prepared in ‘Vanaspati’), Cookies / biscuits, French fries, Potato chips, Bhatura, Samosa, Parantha, etc.
Despite their harmful effect the reason why food manufacturers frequently use them because TFA containing oils can be preserved longer, they give the food the desired shape and texture and can easily substitute ‘Pure ghee’. Further, these are comparatively far lower in cost and thus add to profit/saving.
Avoiding the use of ready to use (instant) mixes for preparing foods as they have a greater chance of having Trans fats and checking the Nutrition Facts label on packaged food items for their TFA content if indicated.
If a label says “0” trans fat, it can still contain 0.5 grams trans fats per serving or less.
While some developing countries have laid down norms for TFA content of food, India has yet to pass/implement the regulation regarding the TFA containing fats or the TFA content of commercially prepared food items. Therefore, the responsibility lies with the consumers to safeguard their interest.
It’s easier said than followed. Most of us, including you and me are habituated the way it is not to be ! Food habits are the toughest to change !
Our food habits should be probably equated to bad habits of smoking and drinking !!!!
Make a change. Bring the difference. Be a healthy person than what you are today !
Take care of tomorrow’s health. Our health might be India’s Wealth !!!
With Love and Care,
WorthvieW
