Industrially produced trans fatty acids (TFAs) are detrimental to health as they elevate low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (commonly known as “bad cholesterol”), increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and have adverse effects on metabolic and inflammatory processes.[1] In 2020, Ukraine adopted stringent regulations (Order № 1613) to eliminate TFAs from the nation's food supply over three years.[2] These regulations set a vital public health standard by mandating that TFAs be restricted to less than 2 grams per 100 grams of total fat in all consumer foods, applicable to both physical retail and electronic commerce. Scheduled to take effect in October 2023, Ukraine faced formidable challenges in ensuring their smooth and effective implementation given the context of full-scale war since February 2022. Budgetary constraints, limited laboratory capacities for TFA analysis (supplies and workforce), and limited technical expertise, amongst other challenges, underscored the complexities of ensuring effective implementation and enforcement of the policy's objectives in the midst of wartime adversities. In response, Ukraine, in collaboration with WHO, took proactive measures to bolster its laboratory capabilities, facilitating enhanced proficiency in TFA analysis and enhancing the nation's capacity to monitor and enforce regulatory measures. This aligns with Output 3.2.1 of the 2022-2023 WHO Programme Budget “Countries enabled to address risk factors through multisectoral actions” and WHO’s 2022-2023 Biennial Collaborative Agreement with Ukraine. It is also a clear example of implementing “Delivering United Action for Better Health – a strategy for collaboration between the WHO Regional Office for Europe and Member States in the WHO European Region,” through a focus on tailored collaboration with a long-term strategic outlook. The WHO Regional Office for Europe has launched the Special Initiative on NCDs and Innovation to address NCD challenges during complex “perma-crises,” which includes wars, climate change, economic downturns, and pandemics. SNI follows a dual-track approach: "Race to Finish" accelerates key NCD “best buys” for quick impact, while "Vision 2050" ensures resilience for future generations. A priority in "Race to the Finish" is supporting Member States to become trans fat free.

-Jarno Habicht, WHO Representative for Ukraine

Crucial for further implementing new national regulation are national laboratory capabilities for TFA analysis that support monitoring, enforcement, risk assessment, policy development, consumer protection, international trade, as well as public awareness efforts about the presence and health implications of TFAs in foods. Regrettably, Ukraine's skilled workforce in laboratories had diminished, primarily as a result of factors such as migration and conscription into the armed forces. In a proactive move to enhance its laboratory capabilities, Ukraine received vital technical assistance, supported by WHO Europe and Resolve to Save Lives. This assistance encompassed an intensive six-day on-site training specifically concentrating on the measurement of TFAs and salt in food products. Consequently, with funding from WHO Europe, Ukraine was able to conduct baseline studies on the food environment as part of the FEEDcities study.[8] This included the collection of baseline data on TFAs, salt, and potassium concentrations in foods.

Ukraine’s efforts, with WHO support, toward a normative framework to eliminate industrially produced TFAs from their food supply signal its proactive commitment to public health, international best practices, and the promotion of healthier food environments. WHO continues to provide guidance to Ukraine as it progresses towards achieving WHO validation for the elimination of TFAs through the WHO Validation Programme for TFA Elimination.[9] This Programme recognizes Member States that have implemented a normative framework to eliminate industrially produced TFAs from their national food supplies by awarding them a WHO Validation certificate. In prioritizing policy-driven strategies, including TFA elimination, despite the ongoing complexies of war and consequent challenges, Ukraine not only showcases resilience but also sets a global precedent. This underscores the country’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the health of its citizens and inspiring hope for the future.

-Kremlin Wickramasinghe, Regional Adviser for Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity, WHO Regional Office for Europe