TRANS-FATTY-ACIDS IN THE AUSTRALIAN DIET

We have estimated mean trans fatty acid consumption in Australia using simulated diets and food frequency intake data using known trans values for significant foods. These data were also extrapolated to predict the increase in trans fatty acid intakes in the hypothetical event of commercial fats becoming predominantly highly hydrogenated. Mean trans fatty acid intake in Australia at present is likely to be less than 2-2.5% energy: replacement of current commercial fats with highly hydrogenated products would approximately double this percentage. We estimate that 41-60% of this intake or about 1-1.5% energy is currently derived from domestic margarines with the remainder coming from dairy and beef fats.