Karnataka steps up efforts to reduce trans fats in food supply chain

From roadside eateries to large food manufacturers, Karnataka is stepping up efforts to reduce the use of industrially produced trans fats, a major contributor to heart disease and other non-communicable diseases.

At a state-level sensitization program on the elimination of manufactured trans fats held in Bengaluru on July 21, the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) commissioner said Karnataka will intensify surveillance, inspection and enforcement to ensure compliance with food safety regulations aimed at reducing trans fats in the food supply chain.

The program brought together food safety officials, food business operators, edible oil producers, industry representatives and public health experts to discuss ways to strengthen enforcement.

Why trans fats matter

Officials pointed out that industrially produced trans fats, commonly found in partially hydrogenated oils used in some processed and fried foods, are among the most harmful dietary risk factors. Excessive consumption is associated with cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, obesity, metabolic disorders and adverse reproductive health outcomes.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), industrial trans fats are responsible for more than 278,000 deaths worldwide each year, including nearly 5,00,000 premature deaths from coronary heart disease. The WHO has called for their complete removal from the global food chain.

India has adopted regulations limiting industrially produced trans fats to less than 2% in fats and oils, and Karnataka plans to strengthen compliance through enhanced surveillance, laboratory monitoring, risk-based inspections and stricter enforcement throughout the food supply chain.

Focus on used cooking oil

The state has expanded awareness-raising and capacity-building initiatives. More than 52,000 food business operators and professionals have been trained on safe food practices and trans fat regulations.

Officials said the Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO) initiative has gained momentum and 45.87 million liters of used cooking oil has been collected across Karnataka between 2024 and 2026. The initiative seeks to prevent the reuse of cooking oil by diverting used oil for industrial purposes, such as biodiesel production, instead of allowing it to re-enter the food chain.

Advocacy and awareness

Enforcement proceedings during this period resulted in fines of ₹28.91 crore for violations of food safety norms. Awareness campaigns were carried out through print, electronic and digital media.

The program highlighted technical support from Vision for Social Development and Resolve to Save Lives in strengthening capacity building and evidence-based actions aimed at eliminating trans fats.

Eliminating industrially produced trans fats would require sustained collaboration between regulators, the food industry and consumers, officials said, adding that Karnataka remains committed to creating a healthier food environment and reducing the burden of diet-related diseases.

Published – 22 Jul 2026 11:23 IST