Roundtable discussion on milkfat, dairy foods, and coronary heart disease risk

A group of 12 research scientists participated in a roundtable discussion on the health implications of milkfat in balanced diets. Four subjects areas were addressed: contributions of dairy foods and other fat sources to diets in the United States; influence of individual fatty acids on coronary heart disease risk; dairy foods and coronary heart disease risk; and health implications of low fat diets. The purpose of the meeting was twofold. First, the researchers evaluated the impact of fatty acids, milkfat and dairy foods on coronary heart disease risk, based on currently available evidence. They met this objective by considering statements of "fact" that were accepted, modified or rejected upon discussion. Final statements are presented in this report. Second, the group identified research questions that must be addressed to better define the role of dietary fats (in general) and milkfat (in particular) in varied diets. Critical study design considerations were high-lighted. Participants agreed that standard-fat dairy foods can fit into diets meeting contemporary fat intake guidelines; the guiding principles of balance, variety and moderation were stressed. More research is needed to understand fully the impact on blood lipid profiles (and on other indicators of disease risk) of butter and other sources of milkfat in mixed-fat diets.