trans fat

noun

variants or trans-fat

ˈtran(t)s-ˈfat 

ˈtranz-

plural trans fats or trans-fats

: an unsaturated fat that contains a trans-fatty acid molecule which has a trans arrangement of double bonds in its hydrocarbon chain and that either occurs naturally in the meat and milk of ruminant animals (such as cows and sheep) or is manufactured by hydrogenating vegetable oil to create a fat (such as margarine or shortening) that is solid at room temperature

The trans fats to watch for are the ones artificially produced and placed in prepackaged foods or commercially prepared deep-fried foods. These trans fats are introduced during cooking or during the manufacturing process to help extend a product's shelf life. They also help some foods taste more satisfying.

—Jennifer Moll

… if you are not minding your intake of another harmful fat called trans-fat, you might still be increasing your risk of heart disease. Indeed, whereas saturated fat raises the body's level of bad "LDL" cholesterol, trans-fat packs a double whammy by also reducing the good "HDL" cholesterol that protects against heart disease …

—Anne Tergesen

compare saturated fat

Examples of trans fat in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Specifically, the scientists found that sulfur-rich compounds in certain vegetables, namely isothiocyanates—found in brassicas such as broccoli and cabbage—and polysulfide—found in garlic, onion and leeks—could generate trans fats at high temperatures. —Hatty Willmoth, Newsweek, 24 Dec. 2024

Some mostly contain simple carbohydrates, sugar, trans fat, and sodium, while others contain complex carbohydrates, fiber, protein, and healthy fats. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 23 Dec. 2024

As mentioned, fats are not unhealthy per se, but roasting at high temperatures can produce trans fats, which increase cholesterol levels and can lead to cardiovascular disease. —Philipp Wehsack, Vogue, 16 Dec. 2024

Experts recommend limiting foods high in trans fats, such as fried foods, as much as possible. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 9 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

trans fat

noun

variants or trans-fat

: an unsaturated fat that contains a trans-fatty acid molecule which has a trans arrangement of double bonds in its hydrocarbon chain and that either occurs naturally in the meat and milk of ruminant animals (such as cows or sheep) or is manufactured by hydrogenating vegetable oil to create a fat (such as margarine or shortening) that is solid at room temperature

Consumption of red meat and trans fats is associated with an increased risk of laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis …

—Linda C. Guidice, The New England Journal of Medicine

Trans fat is created when manufacturers partially hydrogenate liquid oils to make them more solid, more stable, and less greasy-tasting.

—Nutrition Action Health Letter

compare saturated fat