Algor Cards

Trans Fatty Acids and Their Impact

Concept Map

Algorino

Edit available

Trans fatty acids are unsaturated fats with a unique 'trans configuration' that affects their physical properties and health implications. Found in processed foods, they are created through hydrogenation, leading to increased shelf life but also health risks like heart disease and diabetes. Understanding their role in nutrition and food science is crucial for making informed dietary choices.

Understanding Trans Fatty Acids: An Overview

Trans fatty acids are a specific type of unsaturated fat distinguished by the arrangement of hydrogen atoms opposite each other at the location of the carbon double bond, known as the 'trans configuration'. This configuration is less common than the 'cis configuration', which is characterized by hydrogen atoms on the same side of the double bond, resulting in a bent shape of the molecule. Trans fats mimic the properties of saturated fats due to their straighter chains, which lead to a higher melting point and a solid state at ambient temperatures. Naturally occurring trans fats are found in small quantities in the fat of ruminants, such as cows and sheep, while artificial trans fats are created in processed foods through the industrial process of hydrogenation, where hydrogen gas is used to convert liquid vegetable oils into semi-solid fats.
Close-up of foods containing trans fatty acids: golden croissant, margarine in bowl, packaged hamburger and vegetable shortening in jar.

The Chemical Structure and Formation of Trans Fatty Acids

Fatty acids are composed of hydrocarbon chains that can be saturated, with only single bonds, or unsaturated, with one or more double bonds. The configuration of hydrogen atoms around these double bonds is crucial, as it determines the physical shape of the fatty acid. Trans fatty acids have hydrogen atoms on opposite sides of the double bond, leading to a more linear and rigid structure. Naturally, trans fats are produced by bacteria in the stomachs of ruminant animals during digestion. Artificially, they are created through the process of hydrogenation, which not only solidifies oils but also improves their shelf life and stability, making them useful in food manufacturing.

Show More

Want to create maps from your material?

Enter text, upload a photo, or audio to Algor. In a few seconds, Algorino will transform it into a conceptual map, summary, and much more!

Learn with Algor Education flashcards

Click on each Card to learn more about the topic

00

Unlike trans fats, the '______ configuration' of unsaturated fats has hydrogen atoms on the same side, causing a ______ shape.

cis

bent

01

Artificial trans fats are produced through ______ of liquid oils, while natural trans fats are found in the fat of ______ like cows.

hydrogenation

ruminants

02

Definition of fatty acids

Long hydrocarbon chains, can be saturated (single bonds) or unsaturated (one/more double bonds).

Q&A

Here's a list of frequently asked questions on this topic

Can't find what you were looking for?

Search for a topic by entering a phrase or keyword