FDA ruling could kill trans fats

The Food and Drug Administration is proposing that partially hydrogenated oils no longer be recognized as safe for consumption, eliminating it from a legal category that permits use of caffeine and salt, according to the New York Times.

Partially hydrogenated oils, the source of artificial trans fats, became popular in frying and baking and in household items such as margarine in recent decades, but are said to pose significant health risks to the public. The agency’s commissioner said the proposal, which is open for public comment for 60 days, could prevent 20,000 heart attacks each year.

While use of the long-lasting fats has declined in recent years, they still remain in many processed foods such as microwave popcorn, frozen pizzas, coffee creamers and many deserts. Some trans fats occur naturally, but the FDA proposal would only apply to those added to foods, according to the New York Times.

Read more from the New York Times.