Pakistan’s TFA elimination
Sabir Hussain
As Pakistan grapples with a growing health crisis fueled by non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the urgent need for a robust policy to eliminate industrially produced trans fatty acids (TFAs) cannot be overstated. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) ambitious ‘REPLACE Action Framework’ sets a global goal for the elimination of industrially produced TFAs by 2023, and Pakistan, recognizing the severity of the situation, initiated steps towards this critical health objective in 2018.
The grim statistics paint a stark reality – 6 out of 10 deaths in Pakistan are attributed to NCDs, with 3 out of 10 specifically linked to CVDs. A 2014-15 Step Survey reveals that over 4 out of 10 individuals in Pakistan are overweight or obese, further emphasizing the need for a decisive action. In response to this crisis, the WHO proposed a Trans Fatty Acids (TFA) Policy, calling for the elimination of industrially produced TFAs through measures such as banning partially hydrogenated oils and setting a 2% limit of TFA in total fats across all foods.
Pakistan initiated its journey towards TFA elimination in 2018 with the establishment of a Technical Advocacy and Advisory Group by the Ministry of Health (MoH). A comprehensive situation analysis in 2019 identified high sources of industrially produced TFA in the country, paving the way for a collaborative effort with organizations such as Heartfile, WHO, and other partners to develop a Draft National Action Plan. Some provinces, particularly Punjab, took a proactive stance by approving regulations that exceeded WHO limits, implementing a complete ban on partially hydrogenated oils effective from 2020. However, challenges persist, ranging from jurisdictional disputes to industry opposition and the imperative need for comprehensive coverage of all food categories under TFA limits.
Despite the National Standards Committee’s endorsement in June 2023, the actual implementation of these standards is pending. The obstacles are multifaceted, including a complex regulatory pathway, limited technical capacity of regulatory bodies, industry pressure to delay standards, and the pervasive influence of unhealthy palm oil in the market.
To overcome these hurdles, there is high need for adopting a multifaceted approach. Firstly, exploring umbrella regulations covering all foods could provide a more streamlined and effective strategy. This approach, coupled with a situation analysis to prioritize TFA limits, would ensure that no sector remains untouched by the crucial standards. Strengthening the technical capacity of regulatory bodies is equally paramount, allowing for more effective enforcement and monitoring.
The challenge extends beyond the regulatory landscape. Industry dynamics play a pivotal role, and potential challenges include self-regulation attempts, lobbying for weakened regulations, proposing higher TFA thresholds, promoting unhealthy alternatives, and seeking involvement in decision-making bodies. The food industry must recognize its responsibility in contributing to a healthier nation and actively engage in constructive measures that align with public health goals.
While some provinces have taken commendable steps, the journey towards TFA elimination requires a unified and unwavering commitment on the national level. The delayed implementation of endorsed standards calls for immediate attention, and awareness campaigns launched in collaboration with the Prime Minister’s Office and provincial regulatory bodies aim to garner public support for TFA elimination. The urgency of this policy cannot be overstated. As the country grapples with an alarming prevalence of NCDs and CVDs, the significance of eliminating a major contributor, industrially produced TFAs, cannot be undermined.
The longer the delay in implementation, the greater the toll on public health, with more lives succumbing to preventable diseases. Pakistan stands at a critical juncture, and a decisive, comprehensive policy for TFA elimination is the need of the hour. The government, regulatory bodies, and the food industry must work collaboratively to surmount the challenges, ensuring a healthier future for the nation. The urgency of this mission cannot be understated – it is a matter of life and death for millions, and the time to act is now.
The writer is a journalist and Editor S&T at Sunrise Today, based in Islamabad. He covers science and technology, climate change, environmental issues, energy, public health, education, Afghan refugees, and international affairs. He may be reached at X via @EngSabirHussain or by email at: lectureonline14@gmail.com.
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