FDA Regulations Leave Loopholes For Trans Fat In Fat Free Foods

A recent study at Case University revealed that foods claiming to be trans fat free could lead to unhealthy amounts being consumed, and it is legal. Current regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration says a company can claim its product to be fat free if it contains under 0.5 grams of fat. The American Heart Association and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommend limiting consumption of trans fat to 1.11 grams per day due to the health risks, and just 3 servings of a fat free product containing 0.49 grams puts a person above that threshold. Previous studies have shown that an increase from 2 grams to 4.67 grams of trans fat per day can increase risks of cardiovascular disease by 30%. The study recommends smaller incremental reporting requirements to address the problem.