Canadian Food Business
Health Canada recently introduced a regulatory proposal to prohibit the use of partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) in food. PHOs are the main source of industrially produced trans fats.
From April 7 to June 21, a Notice of Proposal detailing the proposed regulation posted online will seek comments from Canadians, including stakeholders. Once the regulation is finalized, the prohibition would come into effect one year later to provide manufacturers time to reformulate their products.
The proposal builds on previous measures, which include mandatory nutrition labelling of trans fats and setting voluntary maximum limits for these fats in processed foods. Eliminating PHOs from the Canadian food supply is an important part of Canada’s Healthy Eating Strategy, which aims to make the healthier choice the easier choice for all Canadians, Health Canada says.
“Through the Healthy Eating Strategy, our government is working to make the healthier choice the easier choice,” says Jane Philpott, Minister of Health. “By prohibiting partially hydrogenated oils, we are removing the largest source of industrial trans fats from Canada’s food supply and helping reduce the risk of heart disease.”
