Margarines analysed by CANSA, Blossom tops list

20 Apr 2010

Dr. Carl Albrecht, head of research for CANSA says that too much omega-6 fatty acid increases systemic inflammation that is the "breeding ground" of cancer cells." It is generally accepted that omega-6 needs to be balanced against omega-3 fatty acids in order to counteract inflammation optimally.” He adds that 28 out of the 40 margarines investigated by the association contained less than one gram of omega-3 fatty acid per 100 grams of margarine.

The analysis has revealed that Blossom Canola and Blossom Canola Light manufactured by Epic Foods, top the list of margarines when listed from a low to high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. CANSA has endorsed the Blossom Canola margarine range with its 'Smart Choice' Seal of Recognition.

The low saturated fat - less than 10% (less than 10 grams per 100 grams margarine) are combined with the high omega-3 fatty acid content and low omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio as well as the less than 1% (one gram per 100 grams margarine) content of trans fats.

Albrecht further says both margarines have the highest concentration of Canola oil in South Africa. "This is the main reason why these brands have achieved the 'Smart Choice' accolade.”

Wikipedia triggers research

The research conducted by CANSA was triggered when Wikipedia stated that some margarines can contain up to 15% trans fats. As trans fats have been linked to breast and prostate cancers in international literature, it decided to investigate this statement by analysing margarines available in South Africa.

The available margarines in South Africa were purchased from commercial outlets and submitted to the CSIR for fatty acid analyses. It was found that all of the margarines were below 2% trans fats (2 grams trans fats per 100 grams margarine).

According to Albrecht this is really good news because it means that margarines in general do not pose a trans fat health threat as is often the case in other countries where hydrogenated oil, especially soya oil, is used.

"CANSA believes that prevention is the best cure of cancer and that the real war on cancer is to neutralise the causes and strengthen the defences," he says.