- By: Muhammad Faisal
Pakistan is grappling with an escalating public health crisis due to the rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), many of which are linked to harmful dietary sources. Among the most harmful contributors to these diseases is the excessive consumption of industrially produced trans fats (iTFAs), commonly found in processed foods. These fats are a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other chronic health conditions, leading to premature death and increased healthcare costs. In light of these concerns, Pakistan must take swift action to regulate and eliminate iTFAs in its food supply.
A critical step in this endeavor is the complete ban on partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), which are the primary source of iTFAs. PHOs are commonly used in the production of vanaspati ghee, margarine, and bakery shortenings, all of which are prevalent in the Pakistani diet. By eliminating PHOs from the food supply, Pakistan can significantly reduce the intake of harmful trans fats among its population. This measure aligns with global best practices and has been successfully implemented in various countries, leading to notable improvements in public health.
Implementing a ban on PHOs requires robust policy frameworks and effective enforcement mechanisms. The government has a pivotal role to play in this regard. By establishing and enforcing ban on PHOs, , the government can ensure that safeguarding public health. Additionally, provincial food authorities must collaborate to monitor and enforce these standards across the country, ensuring uniform compliance and addressing any regional disparities.
Public awareness campaigns are also essential to support the ban on PHOs. Educating consumers about the dangers of trans fats and the benefits of eliminating PHOs from their diet can drive demand for healthier food options. Engaging with stakeholders, including health professionals, and civil society organizations, is crucial to the successful implementation of a PHO ban and the promotion of public health.
In Pakistan, the mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular diseases continues to rise, putting immense pressure on the healthcare system. Recent studies indicate that nations that have successfully implemented iTFA regulations saw a significant decrease in mortality rates. On average, these countries experienced a reduction of approximately 14.2 deaths per 100,000 people per year. This demonstrates the potential of policy measures to improve public health outcomes. To replicate such successes, Pakistan must follow the recommended action areas of the REPLACE initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The first step involves reviewing the dietary sources of iTFAs in Pakistan and understanding the landscape for necessary policy changes. This review will help identify which foods are most responsible for iTFA consumption and inform targeted regulatory efforts. The Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) has already taken a positive step by approving limits on iTFAs in certain foods, such as vanaspati, shortenings, bakery fats, rusks, and breads, capping iTFA content at no more than 2 grams per 100 grams of fat. While this is a promising development, further action is needed to extend these limits across all food products containing fats.
In line with WHO’s recommendations, Pakistan should take steps to legislate stricter policies. These should include limiting iTFA content to 2 grams per 100 grams of total fat in all food products and banning the production and use of partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs).
For these regulations to succeed, it is essential that the government takes a strong, proactive stance in enforcing compliance.The government must invest in monitoring systems to assess the trans fat content in the food supply and track changes in population consumption. These assessments will provide valuable data to inform future policy adjustments and ensure that iTFA levels are consistently kept in check.
In conclusion, the need for comprehensive trans fat regulation in Pakistan is urgent. With NCDs on the rise and healthcare costs soaring, the time to act is now. By adopting and enforcing WHO-recommended policies, Pakistan can significantly reduce the consumption of iTFAs, improve public health, and reduce the economic burden of chronic diseases. This is a vital step toward building a healthier future for all Pakistanis.