Midwestern

Trans fat ban now in effect in Canada

Canada's ban on partially hydrogenated oils takes effect Monday as health officials work to reduce deadly trans fats.

It is now illegal for manufacturers to add those oils to foods sold in Canada. This includes Canadian and imported foods, as well as those prepared in all food service establishments.

Trans fats raise "bad" cholesterol levels in the blood, which is a risk factor for heart disease and a leading cause of death in Canada.

Health Canada said trans fats also reduce levels of good cholesterol which protect against heart disease.

The ban was announced a year ago to give the industry time to adapt.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) enforcement strategy for the new requirement includes a two-year phase-in period during which products containing PHOs can continue to be sold, as long as they were manufactured before September 17, 2018.

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