Tropical Traditions introduces organic trans-fat free palm shortening

American processor Tropical Traditions has developed an organic version of its trans-fat free palm shortening. Derived from fruit harvested from small-scale family farms in South America, the product has had some of its unsaturated fats removed, has a melting point of 36 degrees Celsius and reportedly does not require hydrogenation.

As early as 2004, some trans-fatty acids were banned in some European countries, and recent American food-labeling laws forced manufacturers to list trans fats in their products last year. Some cities in the US are now banning trans fats in restaurants as well.

Tropical Traditions says its organic product was certified by ProForest; all of it farms and processing facilities met all necessary—soil, water, air, biodiversity and local-community—standards. The lands used to grow the palm fruit were previously used for raising cattle, rice and bananas; and were not a result of deforestation.