Dr. Rima Mashal delivered a keynote presentation during the National Stakeholder Dialogue on the Elimination of Trans Fatty Acids (TFAs) in Jordan, held on March 3, 2025, at the Jordan Standards and Metrology Organization (JSMO). Her presentation, titled “Summary of the current situation regarding the use of trans fatty acids (TFA) in Jordan,” provided a detailed overview of the prevalence of TFAs in Jordanian foods—particularly in baked goods, fried foods, margarines, and fast food—highlighting the widespread use of partially hydrogenated oils as a major source. Dr. Mashal addressed the serious health risks linked to TFA consumption, including increased risk of coronary heart disease, elevated LDL cholesterol, reduced HDL cholesterol, and possible associations with type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. She reviewed Jordan’s existing regulatory framework and emphasized the urgent need for stronger enforcement, clearer food labeling, and public education. To address these challenges, she recommended eliminating partially hydrogenated oils from the food supply, promoting healthier fat alternatives, and implementing targeted educational campaigns. Her presentation aligned with the World Health Organization’s global initiative to eliminate industrially produced TFAs from the food supply, referencing successful international models. Dr. Mashal concluded by stressing the importance of multi-sector collaboration between government agencies, food industry stakeholders, and public health institutions to achieve a TFA-free food environment in Jordan.​

The National Stakeholder Dialogue in Jordan on the elimination of trans fatty acids (TFAs) is a collaborative initiative involving government bodies, health professionals, industry stakeholders, and civil society. Its main goals are: strengthen regulatory frameworks and inform the public and industry about the health risks of TFAs​​

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