As early as 1956, there were suggestions in the scientific literature that trans fats could be a cause of the large increase in coronary artery disease but after three decades the concerns were still largely unaddressed.[1] Instead, by the 1980s, fats of animal origin had become one of the greatest concerns of dieticians. Activists, such as Phil Sokolof, who took out full page ads in major newspapers, attacked the use of beef tallow in McDonald’s french fries and urged fast-food companies to switch to vegetable oils. The result was an almost overnight switch by most fast-food outlets to trans fats.[citation needed]
Studies in the early 1990s, however, brought renewed scrutiny and confirmation of the negative health impact of trans fats. In 1994, it was estimated that trans fats caused 20,000 deaths annually in the United States from heart disease.[2]
Mandatory food labeling for trans fats was introduced in several countries.[3] Campaigns were launched by activists to bring attention to the issue and change the practices of food manufacturers.[4]
Phil Sokolof said animal fats were causing heart disease and launched a propaganda campaign to end consumption of animal fats (including dairy fat), and caused a switch from animal fats to trans fats.
By 2018, the WHO estimated 1/2 million people died each year due to the consumption of trans fats.
In 2018, trans fats used in food production were banned in the United States.
Phil Sokolof died of heart failure….
