What is "trans fatty acid"?

Trans fatty acids (TFAs) are a type of unsaturated fat that can be found in certain foods. They are often created during a process called hydrogenation, where liquid vegetable oils are turned into solid fats to improve texture and shelf life. They are commonly found in fried foods, baked goods, and margarine. While they can occur naturally in small amounts, most of the trans fats consumed come from processed foods. Unfortunately, research has linked high intake of trans fats to an increased risk of heart disease and other health problems.