Quality Improvement across Four Iconic National Brands Eliminates
Artificial Trans Fats while Maintaining Taste and Low Saturated Fat
Content
Unilever, one of the world’s largest consumer products companies, today
announced that its entire soft (tub) spreads portfolio in the United
States will have no partially hydrogenated oils and therefore no trans
fats per serving by the second quarter of 2010.
After an extensive three-year research and development effort, Unilever
has begun removing the partially hydrogenated vegetable oil from I Can’t
Believe It’s Not Butter!®, Brummel & Brown®, Shedd’s Spread Country
Crock® and Imperial® soft spread products sold in tub formats, thereby
eliminating the artificial trans fats in these products. The company
committed to doing so while ensuring that the saturated fat content of
these spreads remains as low as possible (2 grams or less per serving),
consistent with dietary guidance to limit saturated fat intake. Product
taste and performance will not change.
“We have been a global leader in the production and innovation of
spreads for over 50 years,” said John LeBoutillier, senior vice
president and general manager, U.S. Foods, Unilever. “As the category
leader with a portfolio of leading brands enjoyed by families across the
country, we’re proud to make a commitment that will have a positive
impact on the health and wellness of millions of our loyal consumers.”
“The ultimate goal is to further reduce trans fats in the American diet,
while maintaining lower levels of saturated fat than butter and many
other soft spreads on the market,” LeBoutillier added. “This is an
important step for Unilever, a company driven by our Vitality mission to
meet everyday needs for nutrition, hygiene and personal care with brands
that help people look good, feel good and get more out of life.”
Over the past half-century, Unilever has focused on lowering the level
of saturated fat and trans fats in its spreads, while increasing the
amount of essential fats to optimize their nutritional benefits. The
company was at the forefront over 10 years ago to begin voluntarily
reducing trans fats from its food products.
