Members of the International Food and Beverage Alliance (IFBA) have adopted an improved worldwide proposal to eliminate industrially-produced trans fats (iTFAs) from their products by 2023.

The decision taken by 12 of the largest global food and beverage companies comes following a constructive discussion hosted by World Health Organization (WHO) director general Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on 2 May.

During the meeting, Ghebreyesus met with IFBA representatives, including CEOs from the 12 companies to discuss measures to eliminate industrial trans fats and reduce salt, sugar and saturated fats in processed foods.

The meeting emphasised the need for regulatory action on labelling, as well as calling on the industry to fully adhere to the WHO code of marketing for breast milk substitutes.

Ghebreyesus said: “The commitment made by IFBA is in line with WHO’s target to eliminate industrial trans fat from the global food supply by 2023.

“WHO will be monitoring the next steps to be taken by companies to help ensure the commitment is realised.

“Eliminating industrially-produced trans fat is one of the simplest and most effective ways to save lives and create a healthier food supply.”

According to WHO, the consumption of trans fat is leading to more than 500,000 deaths globally each year due to coronary heart disease.

IFBA members noted that the iTFA content in their products will not exceed 2g per 100g fat/oil globally by 2023.

The decision is said to be in line with  WHO’s objective and recommendations of its replac action package, which was developed and launched last year.

Additionally, WHO urged non-IFBA members to commit to the elimination of industrial trans fat from the global food supply.