UK farmers can help fight trans fats in the diet

UK - July 31, 2006

A recent report published in the British Medical Journal has highlighted the hazards of trans fatty acids in the diet and called for improved food labelling. However, UK farmers can help reduce the levels of trans fats in food by growing new oilseed rape varieties, says Dow AgroSciences.  

The BMJ report highlights how trans fats which are found in many processed foods can boost "bad" cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. 

For the past two years, Dow has been pioneering the hi-oleic, low linolenic Nexera oilseed rape varieties which will address these concerns.  

“The oil produced from these varieties delivers increased stability, therefore the resulting oil does not require hydrogenation – the process that leads to trans fats. Food cooked in oil from Nexera varieties will have a much improved fat profile -  reduced saturated fats and virtually no trans fats,” says Tim Hancock, Dow’s European Seeds Manager.  

Dow already has considerable demand from food processors to use its oil in the manufacture of products such as chips and crisps. However, the crop acreage needs to increase in the UK before supply can be met.  

“This is a great opportunity for UK farmers to help improve the nation’s diet and take a lead in a new and growing market. Without increased uptake, the alternative is to import oil for overseas, which defeats campaigns to reduce food miles and the increased preference for local products,” said Mr Hancock.

Nexera varieties are marketed in the UK by United Oilseeds, a farmer cooperative specialising in the oilseed rape crop.  

“We are committed to gaining added value for our members,” said Managing Director Chris Baldwin. “Nexera is a classic opportunity of how the UK grower can gain a real edge in the global food market.”  

At present, only spring varieties are available, although breeding work is well advanced to develop winter sown options.