US FDA says partially hydrogenated oils not GRAS

CONSIDERING all scientific evidence, the US Food and Drug Administration finalized its ruling on partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), stating that these are not “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for use in human food. PHOs are the primary dietary source of artificial trans fat in processed foods.

Manufacturers will have three years or until 18 June 2018 to remove PHOs from their products and/or petition the FDA to permit specific uses of PHOs, according to the agency. Following the compliance period, no PHOs can be added to human food unless they are otherwise approved by the FDA.

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“The FDA’s action on this major source of artificial trans fat demonstrates the agency’s commitment to the heart health of all Americans,” said FDA's Acting Commissioner Stephen Ostroff, M.D. “This action is expected to reduce coronary heart disease and prevent thousands of fatal heart attacks every year.”

This determination will significantly reduce the use of PHOs, the major source of artificial trans fats, in the food supply. In 2013, the FDA made a tentative determination that PHOs could no longer be considered GRAS and is finalizing that determination after considering public comments.