[Content of trans-fatty acids in convenience food]

Dietary intake of trans fatty acids (TFA) has recently been linked to the incidence of coronary heart disease. Partially hydrogenated oils and milk and depot fat of ruminant animals are widely regarded as the major sources of dietary TFA. Data concerning TFA contents of industrially prepared food, so-called convenience food, are, however, scarce. Therefore, the fatty acid composition of 52 canned meat products, 51 dry products (soups and sauces), 51 bakery products and snacks, and 74 ready prepared meals (canned or deep-frozen) was examined by gas/liquid chromatography. Canned meat products or prepared meals are no major sources for dietary TFA. Both product groups provided less than 1 g/100 g meat or serving. Contrary to this, dried food items may contain up to 9 g TFA/100 g product.