The World Health Organization (WHO), has acknowledged five nations, including Nigeria, for their outstanding efforts in eliminating industrially produced trans fatty acids (iTFA).
Certificates were awarded to these nations for implementing best-practice policies with robust monitoring and enforcement systems.
In its latest release issued on January 29, 2024, and made available on Sunday [today] February 4, the WHO says despite falling short on the 2018 global target to completely eradicate iTFA from the universal food supply by the end of 2023, positive momentum has been observed.
Seven countries, including Nigeria, enacted new best-practice policies in 2023, aligning with the WHO initiative to combat trans fats associated with heightened risks of heart attacks and heart disease.
Trans-fatty acids, prevalent in fried foods and baked goods, have no health benefits and are linked to adverse health outcomes, experts warn.
The WHO recognition programme spotlights countries going beyond policy introduction to ensure effective monitoring and enforcement, critical for sustained health benefits.
Presently, 53 countries have implemented best-practice policies, positively impacting 46% of the global population, compared to just 6% five years ago. The policies are anticipated to save around 183,000 lives each year.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, commended the recognized nations and urged others to emulate their commitment, stressing the importance of policy enforcement for maximum health impact.
Health experts highlight the feasibility of eliminating iTFA, emphasizing its cost-effectiveness and the potential to save lives.
They advocate for continued efforts to achieve global iTFA elimination by 2025, setting revised targets for regional and global adoption of the best-practice policies.
The next application cycle for the iTFA elimination validation programme opens in March 2024, signaling ongoing global efforts to combat the health risks associated with trans fats.
