Europe introduces new rules for fast food
 

The European Commission, it seems, is almost nullifying all intentions to eat something harmful with an abundance of trans fats, it will soon be difficult to do even with a strong desire.

It’s all about the recently adopted rules, according to which the amount of trans fats in 100 g of the finished product should not exceed 2%. Only such products will be considered safe and approved for sale, and products in which this indicator is higher will not be allowed on the market. 

The impetus to take such measures was the disappointing statistics of the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO experts warn that the consumption of trans fats leads to the death of approximately half a million people every year. The presence of these substances in the diet leads to the development of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.

Trans fatty acid isomers (FFA) are the scientific name for trans fats. They are industrially produced from liquid vegetable oils and allow food to last longer. A large number of TIZHK are contained in:

 
  • refined vegetable oil
  • margarine
  • some confectionery
  • chips
  • popcorn
  • frozen meat and other semi-finished products, breaded
  • sauces, mayonnaise and ketchup
  • dry concentrates

Also, manufacturers will be required to write on the packaging that the product contains trans fats. …

There are products with natural trans fats – milk, cheese, butter and meat. However, these products will not be affected by the new rules. 

The new rules will take effect on April 2, 2021.

When and 2% is a lot

But even the allowed amount of trans fats in food can still double the risk of stroke or heart attack, says expert and author of books on healthy eating, Sven-David Müller.

The daily intake of trans fatty acids should not exceed 1% of the daily calorie requirement. These figures are announced by the German Nutrition Society (DGE). For example, if a man needs 2300 calories a day, his “ceiling” for trans fats is 2,6 g. For reference: one croissant already contains 0,7 g.

Be healthy!

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