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

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

By using rich Belgian dark chocolate, farm-fresh eggs, natural butter and eliminating trans fat, preservatives and artificial colors, every bite of each sensory delightful brownie will take your VIP back to a simpler time. —Lilian Raji, Forbes, 1 Dec. 2024

Dutchman’s Popcorn Coconut Oil Coconut oil may not eliminate fat and calories altogether, but this one makes a fine alternative with all-natural ingredients and no harmful trans fats. —Bestreviews, Sun Sentinel, 25 Nov. 2024

This is because frying turns PUFA into trans fats and other harmful compounds (such as lipid oxidation products), which aren't good for your health. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 14 Oct. 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