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Our laboratory provides the FDA required trans fatty acid analyses for the 2006 nutrition labels. We
use the standard AOAC analysis method based on extraction and gas chromatography with flame
ionization detection. Low levels of trans fatty acids occur naturally in animal products. However, a
more dangerous synthetic type is formed at high levels when vegetable oils are hydrogenated using
metal catalysts.
The FDA requires that all food products list the grams of trans fat per serving on the nutrition label
starting January 1, 2006. Also trans fat levels less than 0.5 grams per serving may be listed as 0 g
trans fat but the complete list of ingtedients must be given on the label. Existing labels may be used
up but then new labels giving the trans fat levels must be provided on the label.
Plant-based products have a zero trans fat level, unless hydrogenated. All animal-based foods
(butter, meats, eggs, milk, and cheese) have low levels of trans fats (which are not the same
structure as hydrogenated oils and are not as harmful). All hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated
vegetable oils have high levels of trans fats. For example, margarine (partially hydrogenated
vegetable oil) has 35% trans fat whereas butter has only 6% natural trans fat (which actually is a
safer type of trans fat). Most food distributors and stores do not accept computer estimated levels
based on the percentage of all ingredients. Foods with hydrogenated vegetable oil as a major
ingredient always contain a high level of trans fatty acids. Cookies, cakes, baked goods, bread, fried
foods, coffee creamers, and dozens of other common foods have significant levels of trans fatty
acids.
How bad are the synthetic trans fats? They significantly raise the risk of heart disease by increasing
“bad” low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.. Some studies indicate that trans fats also lower the
levels of “good” high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Even saturated fats do not cause the lowering
of “good” cholesterol. Therefore trans fats are probably worse than saturated fats. Studies show that
trans fats contribute to many diseases including heart disease, Altzheimers, macular degeneration,
and inflammation..
Our laboratory fee to analyze the levels of trans fatty acids is $190.00 which also includes saturated
fat. The fee for cholesterol in animal-based products is $120.00. All other required nutrition label
items are $460.00 and the turnaround time is approximately 6-10 workdays. Sample size is
generally 4-6 ounces.
