ood is more than mere sustenance. It embodies our culture, binds communities and reflects care. In Pakistan, food plays a pivotal role in our daily lives, celebrations and traditions. However, behind the rich flavors and aromas of our cuisine lies a grave concern: the pervasive presence of industrially produced trans-fatty acids (iTFAs) and partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) in our food supply. These harmful substances harm public health, fueling an alarming surge in cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and other chronic health conditions.

The statistics are dire. Pakistan ranks among the top 15 countries in terms of its burden of coronary heart disease, a condition closely tied to trans-fat consumption. Each year, approximately 200,000 lives are lost to heart-related diseases in Pakistan. With over 30 million adults affected, Pakistan also bears the highest global burden of diabetes. This situation demands urgent action. The best practices policy advocated by the World Health Organisation recommends a hybrid approach.

The hybrid approach integrates regulatory limits on iTFAs and a legislative ban on PHOs, charting a practical and effective course to transform Pakistan’s food landscape. By capping iTFAs in all foods at less than two per cent of total fats and banning the production and distribution of PHOs, Pakistan can directly address this critical public health challenge.

This strategy is essential for several reasons. Limiting industrial trans fats aligns with global best practices, ensuring no more than two per cent of total fats in any food item are derived from iTFAs.

Concurrently, banning PHOs— the primary source of trans fats in processed foods—targets the root cause, compelling manufacturers to adopt healthier alternatives. This two-pronged approach not only creates a safer food supply but also underscores an unyielding commitment to public health.

Pakistan ranks among the top 15 countries in terms of the burden of coronary heart disease, a condition closely tied to trans-fat consumption. Each year, approximately 200,000 lives are lost to heart-related diseases in Pakistan. With over 30 million adults affected, Pakistan also bears the highest global burden of diabetes. 

The urgency of this issue has galvanised organisations like Pakistan Youth Change Advocates, the Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives and Heartfile to launch the TRANSFORM Pakistan campaign. Food authorities, including the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Safety & Halal Food Authority, have committed themselves to supporting the initiative. Beyond raising awareness about the health hazards of iTFAs, these campaigns call for decisive policy actions.

It is imperative that we understand that food safety is integral to public health. Behind every statistic lies a human story—families devastated by premature heart attacks and communities burdened by the emotional and economic toll of chronic diseases. There are faces behind the data. Their struggles demand immediate and meaningful action.

Pakistan’s path forward is clear. It must adopt the hybrid approach to eliminate harmful industrial trans fats from our foods. This will not only save lives but also alleviate the economic strain of healthcare costs and productivity losses associated with trans-fat-induced illnesses.

Achieving this goal requires collective effort. Policymakers must prioritise public health over corporate gains. Civil society must persist in advocacy efforts. Media outlets must amplify calls for change and help mobilise public support. The food industry must adapt to healthier practices.

The public must transform into informed consumers and demand transparency and accountability from food producers.

The journey is long, but with determination and collaboration, we can achieve the critical milestone of trans fats free food supply chain.

The writer is the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Safety & Halal Food Authority director (technical).