Islamabad, December 11, 2025(Ghufran): Health experts, academia, and civil society stakeholders have called for decisive action to reduce the consumption of industrially produced trans fatty acids (iTFA), a major contributor to heart disease and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan.
A consultative meeting was held between representatives of the Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Karachi, Nutrition International, and Mr. Sanaullah Ghuman, General Secretary of the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH), to deliberate on the growing challenge posed by iTFA in the country.
During the discussion, Dr. M. Abdul Haq, Chairman, and Dr. S. M. Ghufran Saeed, Associate Professor, provided an overview of the current iTFA situation in Pakistan. They highlighted a range of mitigation strategies, including technological advancements, product reformulation, and compliance-focused interventions. The experts emphasized the need to translate scientific evidence into effective, real-world actions that safeguard public health.
Mr. Sanaullah Ghuman reiterated PANAH’s unwavering advocacy against the use of iTFA and appreciated the collaboration with academia and development partners. He stressed that joint efforts are critical for raising public awareness, strengthening regulatory enforcement, and promoting healthier edible oil and fat alternatives.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to continue dialogue and advance initiatives aimed at reducing iTFA-related health risks nationwide.