Another way to tell is to look at the list of ingredients. A food label must list the ingredients in order of quantity, from most to least. If hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils are listed early on the list and before polyunsaturated or monounsaturated oils, you know the product contains lots of trans fat. If the label lists unsaturated or monounsaturated oils, olive oil, or canola oil first, the fats are probably okay. Some experts contend that trans fats make up 25 to 60 percent of all fats contained in processed food, and 15 to 30 percent of the total intake of dietary fat. Others disagree, saying the numbers are much lower.

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The only way to be sure that you're not getting any trans fat is to scour the ingredient list on the label for partially or fully hydrogenated oils. Or skip this hassle altogether and eat home-cooked and fresh foods.

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Fortunately, the ingredients list doesn't lie; if it contains any type of partially hydrogenated oil, the product has trans fat. Because you can't tell from the label exactly how much a product may contain, it's best to opt for a brand that contains no partially hydrogenated oil.
And remember, just because a product has no partially hydrogenated oil or trans fat doesn't mean it's healthy. Some manufacturers are simply replacing that type of oil with palm oil, which is high in saturated fat. Or they're using "hydrogenated" or "fully hydrogenated" oil, which does not contain trans fat but, depending on the oil, could be high in saturated fat. So compare labels of similar products and choose those that are not only free of partially hydrogenated oil but also lower in saturated fat (and sodium, while you're at it).

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Check the nutrition facts label which is required to list the amount of trans fat in food products. A food label that indicates 0 trans fats means the product has less than .5 grams of trans fat per serving. Watch your portion size of foods that have partially hydrogenated listed in the ingredient list as these are typically products that will have some trans fats. Stick margarine will have more trans fats than tub margarine and butter has more saturated fat, so your best bet is to use a tub margarine to get the least amount of both saturated and trans fat. Animal products like beef, pork, lamb, butter, and milk naturally contain trans fat but it is a different form than synthetically produced trans fat found in refined/packaged food (cakes, cookies, crackers, snack food and fried fast food).
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.