Tag: Trans fatty acids

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 278,000 deaths each year can be attributed to the intake of industrially produced trans fats, also referred to as TFAs. These harmful fats represent just one of the multiple meanings behind the acronym TFA, which can also stand for trifluoroacetic acid (a persistent chemical contaminant) or the Trade Facilitation Agreement (a global commerce policy).

Most naturally occurring unsaturated fatty acids have a cis configuration, which is known for its health benefits, while the majority of harmful trans fatty acids are created artificially. The primary difference lies in their molecular shape and how this structure impacts their physical properties and effects on human health.

The highest concentrations of vaccenic acid, a naturally occurring trans fatty acid, are found in the fat of ruminant animals and their products, such as milk and beef. Understanding these sources is key to differentiating this natural fat from its industrial counterpart.