A ministerial order has been issued by the Public Health Ministry banning the production, import and distribution of food containing trans fat.
The order which was issued on June 13 and will become effective 180 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette cited scientific evidence that trans fatty acids from partially hydrogenated oils will increase the risk of heart diseases and stroke. It is also associated with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Common foods which contain trans fats include cakes, pies and cookies, margarine, crackers, microwave popcorn, cream-filled candies, doughnuts, breakfast sandwiches, fried fast foods, frozen pizza.
It is not known when the ministerial order will be published in the Royal Gazette.