An unsaturated fatty acid resulting from hydrogenation is known as
A trans fat.
B alpha lipoic acid.
C. alpha Inolenic acid.
D. eicosapentaenoic acid.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is A. trans fat.
Explanation:
Hydrogenation is a chemical process where hydrogen is added to unsaturated fats (oils) to convert them into saturated fats. The process is typically used to solidify oils, such as converting liquid vegetable oils into a more solid form for use in margarine, shortening, and processed foods. While hydrogenation can create a more stable fat product, it can also result in the formation of trans fats.
Trans fats are a type of unsaturated fat, but unlike cis fats (the typical form of unsaturated fats), the hydrogen atoms are positioned on opposite sides of the double bond. This causes a straighter chain structure, which is similar to that of saturated fats. As a result, trans fats behave more like saturated fats in the body and can raise levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as “bad cholesterol,” increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
During partial hydrogenation, some of the unsaturated bonds are converted into trans double bonds, leading to the formation of trans fats. This is a common process in the food industry to extend shelf life, but it has significant health implications, leading to the reduction of trans fat content in foods in many countries.
Now, let’s break down the other options:
- B. Alpha lipoic acid: This is an antioxidant compound that plays a role in metabolism and is not related to fatty acids or hydrogenation.
- C. Alpha-linolenic acid: This is an omega-3 fatty acid found in plant-based oils, and it is not formed by hydrogenation.
- D. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA): EPA is another omega-3 fatty acid found primarily in marine oils, and it is not a product of hydrogenation.
Thus, the correct answer is A. trans fat, which specifically refers to the unsaturated fatty acids formed by the hydrogenation process.