Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Safety assessments compiled from FDA, EFSA, FSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies. This information is for educational purposes — consult a healthcare professional for dietary advice.
Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats)
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Data sourced from WHO JECFA, FDA, EFSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) is rated "Avoid / Concerns" according to current evidence. It is banned in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is banned or not approved in at least one major market.
On This Page
What is Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats)?
EU limited industrial trans fats to 2% in 2021. FDA banned PHOs in US in 2018 (enforced 2020). WHO called for global elimination. Strong link to heart disease
Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) is classified as a Fat/Oil additive. It is banned or restricted in at least one major country.
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
ApprovedEU limited industrial trans fats to 2% in 2021. FDA banned PHOs in US in 2018 (enforced 2020). WHO called for global elimination. Strong link to heart disease
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
BANNED (2021)EU limited industrial trans fats to 2% in 2021. FDA banned PHOs in US in 2018 (enforced 2020). WHO called for global elimination. Strong link to heart disease
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
BANNED (2021)Follows EU regulations
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
Likely restrictedMay follow EU restrictions. Check FSANZ Schedule 15.
🇮🇳 India
May be restrictedCheck FSSAI regulations. India follows Codex Alimentarius guidelines.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
May be restrictedCheck MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety).
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
May be restrictedChina has independent standards. Check GB 2760.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
This additive is banned or not approved in at least one country
Regulatory agencies in different countries may reach different conclusions about the same ingredient based on their assessment criteria, acceptable risk levels, and available evidence. Always check the latest regulations in your region.
Expert Analysis
Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) is classified as a fat/oil in the food additive regulatory framework. Significant safety concerns have been identified, and this additive is restricted or banned in multiple markets. Notably, regulatory agencies disagree on this additive — it is banned in the EU but approved in the US. This regulatory divergence reflects different risk assessment philosophies between jurisdictions. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) safe?
Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) vegan?
Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) banned in Europe?
Yes, Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) is banned in the EU. EU limited industrial trans fats to 2% in 2021. FDA banned PHOs in US in 2018 (enforced 2020). WHO called for global elimination. Strong link to heart disease
What is Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) made from?
EU limited industrial trans fats to 2% in 2021. FDA banned PHOs in US in 2018 (enforced 2020). WHO called for global elimination. Strong link to heart disease
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) safe?
Is Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) banned in any country?
What is Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) used for?
Sources & References
Regulatory data for Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) is sourced from the following agencies:
- FDA: Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS)
- EFSA: Food Additives Database
- FSA: Approved Additives and E Numbers
- MHLW: Standards for Use of Food Additives
- Health Canada: Lists of Permitted Food Additives
- FSANZ: Food Additives
- FSSAI: Food Safety and Standards
- MFDS: Food Additives Standards
- ANVISA: Food Additives Legislation
- GB 2760: National Food Safety Standard
- WHO JECFA: International Safety Evaluations
- CSPI: Chemical Cuisine — Food Additive Safety Ratings
Often Found Together
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