Determination of trans-fatty acids in non-dairy foods using enhanced CZE-UV: Implications for food health assessment

The consumption of industrial trans-fatty acids is knowingly associated with cardiovascular diseases, obesity, cholesterol increase, and other disorders, which turn into a public health issue. An initiative organized by the World Health Organization foresees the reduction of the consumption of these products worldwide. Therefore, labeling regulations, restrictions, or even prohibition of industrial trans-fat addition in foodstuffs have been defined by health regulatory agencies in several countries. In this context, a novel screening quantitative method by CZE-UV, aiming at enhancing routine analysis, is a cost-effective and viable option to determine elaidic acid as a marker for industrial trans-fatty acids. The new method combines the CZE-UV with an on-column injection program and a single-point standard addition method for quantification, which provides reliable quantitative options with less laborious laboratory steps, high throughput, and a reduction of analysis costs. In order to attend Resolution - RDC No. 632 preconized by ANVISA, about 300 samples, including vegetable oils and non-dairy foods, from different precedency, batches, and brands were successfully analyzed. The method improves upon existing methods by providing adequate results, especially where current food labeling relies on general estimations or ingredient list checks.