At the forthcoming Review of Food Labelling and Policy, a proactive panel appointed by the Council of Australian Governments and the Australia and New Zealand Food Regulation Ministerial Council, health experts will fervently recommend the mandatory labelling of foods that are rich in artery-clogging ‘trans’ fats.

In case the mandatory labelling indicates that manufacturers are using high levels of ‘trans’ fats – which is a ‘dangerous’ type of fat commonly found in pastries, biscuits and fried foods; and can raise “bad” cholesterol levels and lower “good” cholesterol -, experts intend to insist on a complete, nationwide ban on their use.

With the present rules in Australia hardly effective in identifying trans fats, a number of food manufacturers widely use it for the reason that not only is it low-priced, but it also helps make foods crispy and extends shelf life of food products.

However, trans fat increases the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and strokes; and reportedly nearly 6000 Australians die each year from diseases linked to excessive consumption of trans fat.

Noting that mandatory labelling would require manufacturers to market their products as “trans fat free,” independent nutritionist Rosemary Stanton, one of the participants to attend the review, said: “Trans fats are one of the most harmful things in our diet," she said. "But how can people avoid trans fats if they aren't labelled?”