Findings from GAIN/SBN pilot project for the elimination of industrially produced trans fatty acids (iTFA) in Nigeria and Pakistan

The SUN Business Network (SBN)/Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), with the support of Resolve to Save Lives, an initiative of Vital Strategies, conducted a pilot project to promote the replacement of iTFA by local businesses in Nigeria and Pakistan. The project was a business-to-business initiative aiming to leverage the expertise of the International Food and Beverage Alliance (IFBA) in iTFA replacement. The report, however, still has important learnings for public sector actors looking to take action or support businesses in eliminating iTFA in foods.

To ensure elimination of iTFA from the global food supply by 2023, this report – based on assessments conducted in Nigeria and Pakistan – includes the following business-to-business and technical assistance recommendations:

• Provide more targeted and specific technical assistance to SMEs based on their products’ categories (edible fats and oils, bakeries, and food manufacturers).
• Consider use of pre-recorded, virtual training accessible at any time by SMEs.
• Schedule opportunities for follow-up technical assistance and support after initial training.
• Create networking opportunities for local SMEs to connect and exchange ideas on iTFA elimination.

Building on the findings of this project, SBN will seek to support more SMEs eliminate iTFA across its national networks.

Read the full report here: Findings from GAIN/SBN pilot project on iTFA elimination in Nigeria and Pakistan.