WHO reference protocol for measuring fatty acids in foods, with emphasis on monitoring trans-fatty acids originating from partial hydrogenation of edible oils

Overview

Assessing and monitoring TFA content in the food supply is one of the key action areas for countries in order to eliminate TFA. WHO first developed and published a reference laboratory protocol for measuring TFA in foods in December 2020 (WHO global protocol for measuring fatty acid profiles of foods, with emphasis on monitoring trans-fatty acids originating from partially hydrogenated oils). Since then, new data and information have been obtained on the procedures for measuring fatty acids. The WHO reference protocol has been revised based on the new data and information. This updated WHO reference protocol replaces the original WHO global reference protocol. This updated edition of the WHO reference protocol is a compendium of validated procedures for conducting FAME analysis, allowing laboratories to choose the most suitable procedure for their specific analytical needs.