Ultra-processed foods - it's time for an improved definition

"Later this month, the United Nations General Assembly will discuss a proposal to eliminate trans-fatty acids (trans fats) from diets. These fats are mainly produced industrially. They clog up arteries, increasing people's risk of a heart attack or death. Some 60 countries are already on a path to eliminating these fats and the World Health Organization has certified that 9 have removed industrially produced trans fats from their food supply."

"Eliminating these fats will be a win. However, a coalition of public-health researchers and institutions in Europe and in low- and middle-income countries is urging countries to ensure that the language of the UN declaration refers specifically to industrially produced trans fats, which it doesn't at present. This is because trans fats also occur in natural products, such as milk and other dairy products."

"In a letter coordinated by the International Livestock Research Institute, a non-profit organization based in Addis Ababa, and backed by the African Union, signatories say that nations need to be careful that the proposal does not inadvertently discourage foods that are important for nutrition, especially in poor countries. They are making an important point. Researchers have a responsibility to push for accuracy and precision and to reduce the possibility of unintended consequences in public-health policy."

Later this month the United Nations General Assembly will consider eliminating trans-fatty acids from diets. These fats are mainly industrially produced, clog arteries and increase risk of heart attack and death. About 60 countries are pursuing elimination and WHO has certified nine as having removed industrially produced trans fats from their food supply. A coalition of public-health researchers and institutions urges declarations to explicitly target industrial sources because small amounts occur naturally in dairy. Signatories coordinated by the International Livestock Research Institute and backed by the African Union warn that policy wording should not discourage nutritionally important foods in poor countries. Industrially produced trans fats commonly occur in ultra-processed foods that are often high in salt, sugar and saturated fats.

Read at Nature