United Foods Company commends UAE’s nationwide ban on harmful trans fats

Food & FMCG

United Foods Company commends UAE’s nationwide ban on harmful trans fats

United Foods Company has reaffirmed its commitment to healthier food manufacturing following the UAE’s nationwide ban on partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), a major source of industrial trans fats linked to serious health risks.

The UAE-based food manufacturing and distribution company announced that it had already removed PHOs from its full product portfolio in 2019 — more than five years before the new regulations officially came into effect in 2026.

The nationwide regulation aligns with recommendations from the World Health Organization aimed at eliminating industrial trans fats from food supplies worldwide to improve public health outcomes.

United Foods Company said its early transition reflected growing global clinical evidence connecting trans fats to increased risks of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Early transition toward healthier food production

The company’s reformulation programme involved extensive research, product testing, and supply chain adjustments to eliminate PHOs while maintaining product quality, texture, and performance across its edible oils and fats portfolio.

UFC’s products include vegetable ghee, oils, margarines, and butter blends used by both retail and industrial customers.

Mohamed Itani, CEO of United Foods Company, described the UAE’s PHO ban as a major step forward for public health and the local food industry.

He said the regulation would improve consumer access to healthier nutritional options while helping UAE food manufacturers align more closely with international food safety and nutrition standards.

Itani added that the transition required significant technical expertise and long-term investment, positioning UFC to play a leading role in advancing healthier food production across the region.

UAE health concerns drive nutrition initiatives

According to data from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention’s National Health and Nutrition Survey 2024–2025, around 22.4% of adults in the UAE are obese, while more than half of the population has elevated cholesterol levels and nearly 60% are physically inactive.

UFC stated that initiatives such as the trans-fat ban support the UAE’s broader strategy to address lifestyle-related health conditions and encourage healthier dietary habits.

Obaid Shaikh, Head of Marketing at UFC, said companies also have a responsibility to educate consumers about preventive healthcare and nutrition awareness.

Focus on innovation and sustainable growth

Under the leadership of Mohamed Itani, UFC has expanded its research and development capabilities to support innovation, operational efficiency, and healthier food solutions.

The company said it continues investing in advanced food technologies, sustainable sourcing, and product innovation as demand grows for cleaner-label and functional food products.

UFC also highlighted the importance of collaboration between regulators and food manufacturers to ensure effective implementation of nutrition-focused regulations and maximise long-term public health benefits.

Looking ahead, the company expects the UAE to continue advancing broader nutrition initiatives, including sugar and salt reduction programmes and front-of-pack food labelling systems.