IOI Loders Croklaan, leading producer of palm-based fats and oils, now offers a series of courses to help manufacturers seamlessly eliminate partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) in product formulations.
IOI Loders hosts the hands-on, two-day course, titled PHO Removal 201, at the company’s Channahon, Ill., headquarters. Classes give participants the opportunity to learn about the various options available, with additional focus on the impact of trans-fat on nutrition and labeling. IOI Loder’s educational program qualifies for Certified Food Scientist (CFS) recertification contact hours (CH).
“This course reaffirms IOI Loders Croklaan’s commitment to our customers and the market, enabling them to eliminate PHO without sacrifice to taste, quality or texture,” says Tim Surin, director of sales and marketing.
The FDA has proposed to revoke the GRAS Status of PHOs, which have been used widely in processed foods such as frozen foods and baked goods. Partial hydrogenation was introduced as an alternative for saturated fat. Artificial PHOs contain trans-fats, which as stated by the FDA, have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that a further reduction of trans-fat in the food supply can prevent an additional 7,000 deaths from heart disease each year and up to 20,000 heart attacks each year.
The course is free, although participants must pay for their own travel and hotel. IOI Loders books a block of rooms at a discounted rate, provides transportation from the hotel and provides related meals. The next classes most likely be scheduled for late April or early May with another in August.
For additional information, contact Shellie Kramer, IOI Loders Croklaan marketing manager, at 800-621-4710 or visit www.Go-No-PHO.com.
– IOI Loders Croklaan, www.croklaan.com
