**CPDI Calls on Provinces to Enforce Trans Fat Limit to Fight Heart Disease in Pakistan**
The Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI) has urged provincial governments and food authorities to urgently implement a new nationwide limit on industrially produced trans-fatty acids (iTFAs), aiming to curb rising rates of heart disease and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across Pakistan.
In formal communications sent to Directors General of provincial food authorities and the Chief Ministers, CPDI highlighted the importance of enforcing the Pakistan Standard PS 5642:2025. Notified by the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) earlier this year, this regulation restricts iTFAs to no more than 2% of the total fat content in all food products. The standard covers a wide range of foods made with edible oils and fats—including packaged, processed, ultra-processed, and street-vended items—while exempting only naturally occurring trans fats in foods such as dairy and meat.
CPDI called on provincial authorities to issue clear directives mandating compliance from all food manufacturers, suppliers, importers, and vendors. The organization also pressed for regular food monitoring and testing, the introduction of clear food labeling practices, and strict enforcement actions that include penalties for non-compliance.
“Pakistan has taken a significant step by notifying this standard, but its true impact will only be seen through effective and timely implementation,” said Mukhtar Ahmad Ali, Executive Director of CPDI. He emphasized that the global health community, including the World Health Organization, regards iTFA elimination as a top public health priority, and urged provincial governments to show leadership in aligning with global efforts to save lives.
Additionally, CPDI pledged ongoing support for the implementation process by fostering public awareness and promoting oversight to ensure transparency and accountability. The organization expressed confidence that decisive provincial action on trans fats will reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases and help prevent premature deaths due to unhealthy dietary practices.
