Effect of Trans Fatty Acids on Milk Fat and Their Impact on Human Health

Advances in our understanding of lipid metabolism in the ruminant and the effect of specific fatty acids on both ruminant metabolism and human health has increased significantly in recent years. Unique biohydrogenation intermediates formed in the rumen have been shown to be potent inhibitors of milk fat synthesis, and the biology behind this and its potential application and benefit to both animal welfare and animal productivity are active areas of research. In spite of the negative image of dietary trans fatty acids on human health, the two major trans fatty acids found in ruminant meat and milk, vaccenic acid and CLA, have been shown to be effective in preventing cancer and atherogenesis in biomedical studies with animal models. The enrichment of these fatty acids in milk by natural means offers potential to not only benefit human health but also improve the public perception of milk and dairy products.