Saturated fatty acids are known to be ineffective in preventing any chronic diseases. Since the human body can synthesize the adequate level of saturated fats needed for their physiological and structural function, no daily value is defined for saturated fats. (FNB, 2005)

There is also no upper level of intake defined because any incremental increase in saturated fat intake increases cardiovascular disease risk. Diets with high saturated fats are associated with high LDL cholesterol. However, since saturated fats are found almost in all fat content in different ratios, it is near impossible to zero the intake level without causing deficiencies in other essential nutrients. (FNB, 2005)

Within foods, saturated fats and unsaturated fats are found as a mixture. So it is not possible to target zero consumption. However, you can minimize it. In general, animal foods other than fish are high in saturated fat, and plant-based foods are high in unsaturated fat.

In Europe, it is advised to consume saturated fats as low as possible within the context of a nutritionally adequate diet. In the U.S., the advice is to consume less than 10% of calories per day from saturated fat and replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats when possible. (FDA, 2021) (EFSA, 2010).