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Yesterday we reported on a new global program to help employees (and people generally) address obesity and chronic diseases by reducing trans fats in their diets.

We noted the World Health Organization plan to “eliminate industrially-produced trans-fatty acids from global food supply.” It's called REPLACE, a step-by-step guide for the elimination of industrially-produced trans-fatty acids from the global food supply.

As we stated: Programs like this can help workplace wellness programs looking for new ways to inform and engage employees about trans fats and how reduce them in one's diet.

Said WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus: “WHO calls on governments to use the REPLACE action package to eliminate industrially-produced trans-fatty acids from the food supply. Implementing the six strategic actions in the REPLACE package will help  achieve the elimination of trans fat, and represent a major victory in  the  global  fight against cardiovascular disease.”

The organization notes that: REPLACE provides six strategic actions to ensure the prompt, complete, and sustained elimination of industrially-produced trans fats from the food supply. While some of these tips call for government action, many can become part of a well-run workplace wellness program:

• REview dietary sources of industrially-produced trans fats and the landscape for required policy change.
• Promote the replacement of industrially-produced trans fats with healthier fats and oils.
• Legislate or enact regulatory actions to eliminate industrially-produced trans fats.
• Assess and monitor trans fats content in the food supply and changes in trans fat consumption in the population.
• Create awareness of the negative health impact of trans fats among policy makers, producers, suppliers, and the public.
• Enforce compliance of policies and regulations.

Said Dr. Tom Frieden, President and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives, an initiative of Vital Strategies; “New York City eliminated industrially-produced trans fat a decade ago, following Denmark’s lead. Trans fat is an unnecessary toxic chemical that kills, and there’s no reason people around the world should continue to be exposed.”

Tomorrow: A video on the program