- By: Alishba Khattak
Addressing public health has rarely been more important in Pakistan. Despite being a serious health threat, industrially produced trans-fatty acids (iTFAs) are still found in many foods. iTFAs, which are mostly found in processed ghee and a variety of dietary products, are a silent poison that is fueling the country’s varieties of non-communicable disease (NCDs) epidemic.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that iTFAs in food products should not exceed 2% of total fat per 100 grams. It means for every 100 grams of ghee or any other food product, there is 2 grams of iTFAs in surplus. Obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are among the serious health effects of going over this limit.
The public health data from Pakistan presents an image of a “death threat” disease. According to the 2014–15 NCDs STEP survey, 37% of Pakistani adults have hypertension, and 41.3% are overweight or obese. In addition, according to WHO’s 2016 report, cardiovascular diseases account for 29% of all deaths in the nation, making them the leading cause of death. With over 33 million cases, Pakistan has the third-highest prevalence of diabetes in the world, according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Ten million more people are at risk of developing diabetes because they are pre-diabetic. These worst medical conditions cause premature deaths, in addition to lowering quality of life. The number of people with diabetes is predicted to rise to 62 million by 2045, if nothing is done. The financial toll is equally shockingly staggering. In Pakistan, diabetes treatment cost $2.64 billion in 2021, and obesity was estimated to cost PKR 428 billion annually in 2015.
Trans-fatty acids that are produced industrially are a major cause of these health issues. Because of their affordability and long shelf life, they are frequently found in fried and processed foods. They have a disastrous effect on human health, though. iTFAs dramatically increase the risk of heart disease and stroke by raising bad cholesterol (LDL) and lowering good cholesterol (HDL).
Numerous nations have acknowledged this threat and taken prompt action, either prohibiting partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), which is the main source of iTFAs, or limiting iTFAs to 2% of total fats. Unfortunately, Pakistan has not yet successfully enforced such laws, apparently endangering its citizens and their overall health.
In order to solve this problem, the government must play a significant role. As advised by the WHO, it must implement strict regulations to control the amount of iTFA in food products. Public awareness initiatives are also crucial for informing the public about the risks posed by iTFAs and encouraging them to demand healthier food options.
In Pakistan, civil society organizations (CSOs) are already taking the initiative. The “TRANSFORM Pakistan” campaign is one initiative that aims to advocate for legislative changes and increase public awareness of the risks associated with iTFAs. In order to gather contraries to iTFAs, youth organizations and groups have also joined the battle, such as Peshawar’s Illuminate Impact Foundation, which hosts seminars and educational events.
By involving students, medical professionals, and the general public, these initiatives have set the stage for more significant change.
To materialize a lasting influence on the efforts, cooperation between government organizations, civil society, and the private sector is essential to solving the problem successfully. Food manufacturers and regulatory agencies should collaborate to promote the use of healthier production techniques and cooking oils. Change can be further encouraged by providing tax breaks or subsidies to businesses that adhere to iTFA regulations. By putting in place all-encompassing regulations, encouraging cooperation, and raising consumer awareness, Pakistan can drastically lower consumption of unhealthy fats and enhance public health. There are two advantages: lower healthcare expenses and a healthier populace.
It’s time to take firm actions. Even though iTFAs pose a hidden threat, their effects are evident in the rise in NCD cases and the resulting financial burden. By controlling iTFAs and promoting better eating practices, Pakistan must put public health first.