Islamabad: A recent study conducted by the Department of Food Technology at the University of Karachi shed light on the levels of industrially produced trans-fats (iTFA) in commonly consumed foods in university canteens. Sponsored by Pakistan Youth Change Advocates (PYCA) as part of the TRANSFORM Pakistan campaign, the study aims to address the health risks associated with the consumption of trans fats .The study aimed to assess the nutritional composition of the five most consumed foods served in various cafeterias across university campuses, with a particular emphasis on trans-fat content. The findings revealed that Paratha, a staple food consumed by students, contained trans-fat above the 2% limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA). This poses a significant public health concern, as excessive consumption of trans fats is associated with various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer.
On campus poses a serious threat to the well-being of students. Immediate action is needed to regulate the content of trans-fats in all food and ensuring the provision of healthier alternatives.”
Ms. Huma Jehangir, Head of Program Implementation on behalf of PYCA, said: “This study conducted at the University of Karachi is one example of how young people are responding to the TRANSFORM Pakistan campaign and actively highlighting the urgency of regulating industrially produced trans fats to less than 2 percent of the total of fat in all foods across Pakistan.
Dr. S.M. Commenting on the situation, Ghufran, Assistant Professor, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Karachi, shared, “Based on the findings of the study, the implementation regulations to limit the presence of trans fats in our food sources and limit the use of partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, the main source of trans -fats, are essential to protect public health in Pakistan. Dr. Discussing the need to work closely with young people, Ghufran added: “It is commendable that PYCA is working to tackle the issue of trans fats in educational institutions.
Several chronic diseases, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and hypertension, have been observed to increase among young people over the past few decades. Therefore, it would be beneficial to take early action to address this problem in all educational institutions across the country.”
PYCA, as a sponsor of this research as part of the TRANSFORM Pakistan campaign, is committed to engaging the media and youth across the country to advocate for the regulation of iTFA in food sources. Through joint efforts, policy makers, health professionals and consumers can work together to reduce the health risks associated with trans fat consumption and improve the overall quality of the food supply.
