A processed food product demonised because of its allegedly toxic effects may be safe in small amounts, and one version could even protect against heart deaths, new research from Germany has shown.
Trans fatty acids (TFAs), also known as trans or hydrogenated fats, have previously been linked to high cholesterol, heart conditions, strokes, diabetes and some cancers.
High intakes have even been associated with an increased risk of infertility and Alzheimer's disease.
But new research now suggests that small amounts of artificially-produced trans fat in food are nothing to worry about, and a naturally occurring TFA found in milk and meat may actually be beneficial to health.
"Our results show that the low levels of industrially produced TFA we found ... did not pose a health risk, and therefore could be regarded as safe," says Lead scientist Dr Marcus Kleber, from Heidelberg University in Germany.
Artificial trans fats were once widely used as ingredients in processed foods, such as cakes, biscuits and pies, and for frying.
Consumption of artificial trans fats has been greatly reduced in Europe, where there have been calls to limit or outlaw the ingredients.
In June US regulator the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clamped down on artificial trans fats by revoking their "generally recognised as safe" (GRAS) status and effectively banning them from food products.
Scientists conducting the new research measured concentrations of trans fats in the red blood cells of 3,259 people in south-west Germany, who were undergoing a diagnostic procedure for heart disease between 1997 and 2000.
Participants were then monitored for around 10 years, during which time 975, or 30 per cent, of them died.
Their trans fat levels were linked to information about deaths, medical history, lifestyle factors such as smoking and physical activity, and Body Mass Index (BMI).
Higher levels of industrial trans fats did not lead to a greater likelihood of dying, in contrast to other research in the US.
But other experts have warned the public not to be misled by the findings, and reinforced the message that trans fats are not a healthy addition to diet.
Dr Tim Chico, reader in cardiovascular medicine at the University of Sheffield, said trans fats had been strongly linked to narrowing of the heart arteries, which could lead to heart attacks.
He also pointed out that none of the study participants were healthy, and 80 per cent were confirmed as having heart disease.
"My advice remains the same - whether or not you are healthy or already have heart disease you should eat a healthy diet (rich in vegetables, nuts, seeds, and olive oil) and avoid processed foods that may contain trans fats and other unhealthy ingredients," Dr Chico said.
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