Update - Removal of Trans Fat in Processed Foods - FDA has extended the public comment period to March 8, 2014

FDA has decided to extend the comment period by 60 days, to March 8, 2014, on its preliminary determination that partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), the primary dietary source of artificial trans fat in processed foods, are not “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for use in food. This extension is being provided in response to numerous stakeholder requests to provide additional time for comments. FDA is expediting publication of a notice in the Federal Register and will issue a Constituent Update when the exact publication date is known.

FDA published a notice in the Federal Register announcing its preliminary determination on November 8, 2013. FDA provided 60 days, until January 7, 2014, for interested persons to provide comments and scientific data pertaining to the notice, including specific issues that FDA sought comments on such as possible alternative approaches, time needed for reformulation, burden on small businesses, and other technical challenges to removal of PHOs from the food supply.

Submit comments electronically to the FDA docket on http://www.regulations.gov, use docket number FDA-2013-N-1317.
To submit comments by mail, send to FDA at:
Division of Dockets Management (HFA-305)
Food and Drug Administration
5630 Fishers Lane, Rm. 1061
Rockville, MD 20852
All submissions must include the agency name and docket number

Find Out More

• "FDA to Extend Comment Period on Measure to Further Reduce Trans Fat in Processed Foods" (December 17, 2013 FDA CFSAN Constituent Update)

• "FDA takes step to further reduce trans fats in processed foods Reducing trans fat intake could prevent thousands of heart attacks and deaths" (FDA News Release)

• "FDA Targets Trans Fat in Processed Foods" (FDA Consumer Update)

• "Trans Fat: Taking the Next Important Step" FDA Blog Post by Michael R. Taylor, Deputy Commissioner for Foods and Veterinary Medicine) 

• "Background Information for Media: Trans Fats" (International Food Information Council Press Release)

Resources on trans Fatty Acids Now Available

While the FDA 60-day comment period is underway, explore the collection of resources on trans fatty acids, including Official AOCS Methods,  books, a listing of analytical references, and more. In addition, learn more about the upcoming AOCS trans Fatty Acid Sample Analysis Webinar.