How much trans fat is in thickened cream?
The amount of trans fat across different brands and types of dairy foods varies, and since labelling isn’t compulsory in Australia, it can be challenging to compare amounts. The average trans fat content of Australian thickened cream is approximately 2g per 100mL.[1]
Last updated 31/01/2025
Consuming too much trans fat can lead to high LDL-cholesterol (the ‘bad’ kind of cholesterol that clogs arteries and causes heart disease) and low HDL-cholesterol (the good type).
Dairy foods naturally have a tiny amount of trans fat, but it's not the same as the artificial trans fat found in processed foods. That type of trans fat is created during high-temperature cooking or commercial frying using vegetable oils. It’s this type of trans fat that’s most harmful as its linked to health risks.
Now, let's talk about those processed foods to avoid or enjoy in moderation. Think biscuits, pies, pastries, cakes, deep-fried treats, and fast-food items like hamburgers, pizza, and chips. Unlike dairy foods, they're loaded with artificial, industrially produced trans fat and lacking in nutrients. So, if you’re looking to limit your intake of trans fat, it's best to limit your intake or avoid of these items.[2]
If you want to dig deeper into trans fat and its presence in milk, visit our "Is trans fat present in milk?" page for more info.
If you would like to know more about trans fat in the specific brand of foods you buy, you can contact the manufacturers directly on a consumer information line displayed on the packaging.
References
[1] Food Details (foodstandards.gov.au)
[2] Fats, Oils and Heart Health | The Heart Foundation
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