trans fat

Trans fat is a type of unsaturated fat that occurs in foods. Trans fats are fats (triglycerides, i.e. triple esters of glycerin) that contain chains derived from trans fatty acids. Trans fatty acids are unsaturated fatty acids that contain a double bond in the trans conformation.

Small amounts of trans fats occur naturally in animal and dairy products, but large amounts are found in some processed foods made with partially hydrogenated oils. Because consumption of trans fats is associated with increased risk for cardiovascular diseases, artificial trans fats are highly regulated or banned in many countries. However, they are still widely consumed in developing nations where they are associated with increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and death.