Oman recognised for eliminating artificial trans fats by WHO
Muscat – Oman has become one of only nine countries – and the second in the Arab world – to be officially recognised by World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating artificial trans fats from its food supply.
The recognition was announced on Monday at the opening of the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland where the certificate was presented to H E Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health.
'Eliminating artificial trans fats is a milestone in our commitment to promoting and protecting community health,' said H E Dr Sabti. 'We are proud to be among the leading countries to implement this life-saving policy to eliminate this harmful component.'
The measure followed coordinated efforts by Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, and other relevant authorities to ban the use of artificial trans fats in food products across the sultanate.
Officials said the measure aligns with Oman Vision 2040 objectives aiming to elevate the sultanate to the ranks of developed nations, with health as a central pillar of national planning.
Typically found in partially hydrogenated oils, artificial trans fats have been widely linked to increased risk of heart disease and other noncommunicable diseases. The WHO has called for elimination of the substance globally, describing it as a toxic ingredient with no known health benefits.
This year's World Health Assembly, held under the theme 'One World for Health', runs until May 27. The event has brought together health leaders from around the world to discuss issues including the 2026-2027 programme budget, pandemic preparedness, mental health and global strategies on nutrition, maternal and child health, and nursing and midwifery.
Oman's delegation is also expected to participate in discussions on antimicrobial resistance, climate change and health, and ongoing efforts to develop a global agreement on pandemic prevention and response.
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