By May 2025, hydrogenated fats in food products will be prohibited in Kuwait

 
 
 

The Deputy Director General of the Community Nutrition Sector at the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition (PAFN), Dr. Shaima Mohammad Al-Asfour, emphasized the significance of new regulations targeting partially hydrogenated fats. This regulation is designed to limit the use of trans fats in food products, aiming to reduce risks of chronic diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases.

Dr. Al-Asfour explained that partially hydrogenated fats are a leading cause of harmful cholesterol levels, which contribute to heart disease. These fats, commonly found in products like margarine, baked goods, and fast food, have been linked to a range of health problems, including diabetes and obesity.

PAFN is working in close collaboration with several ministries, such as the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This joint effort ensures effective implementation and monitoring of the regulation across both local and imported products.

The regulation will come into effect by May 1, 2025. Dr. Al-Asfour outlined the ongoing steps to ensure compliance, including monitoring and laboratory testing of products, with penalties in place for non-compliance.

Consumers can identify products with hydrogenated fats by checking the ingredient list. PAFN ensures that products undergo laboratory tests to verify their compliance with the regulation.

Some companies have expressed concerns about the cost of reformulating products, but PAFN is actively addressing these challenges through meetings and workshops. Additionally, the authority is planning to launch public awareness campaigns across various media platforms to inform consumers about the regulation and its health benefits.

Dr. Al-Asfour shared that PAFN is working on updating school cafeteria regulations and making calorie specifications a binding requirement in Kuwait. The goal is to shift food consumption patterns to healthier options, ultimately reducing chronic diseases and promoting better public health.

  
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IFL  - Kuwait 2025