Legislation to ban industrially produced trans fats is expected to be introduced during this legislative session while the Government also plans to progress restrictions on flavoured vaping products, MPs heard.

The moves are among efforts to address “the rising burden of noncommunicable diseases” such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and respiratory illnesses.

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said: “These diseases account for the majority of deaths and healthcare costs in Bermuda, yet many of them are preventable by addressing key risk factors.”

In the House of Assembly on Friday, she highlighted that the Government plans to introduce legislation aimed at banning industrially produced trans fats in food products to promote healthier diets and reduce the risks associated with heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Ms Wilson announced the intention last year and a commitment on the same topic was also made in the Progressive Labour Party’s platform before the General Election in February.

She told the House: “Trans fats, often found in processed and fried foods, pose significant health risks while offering no health benefits.

“High consumption of trans fats significantly increases health risks, raising the likelihood of death from any cause by 34 per cent, coronary heart disease deaths by 28 per cent and coronary heart disease overall by 21 per cent.”

Ms Wilson noted that smoking and vaping remained as major contributors to respiratory diseases, cancers and cardiovascular issues.

To tackle this, she said: “The Government will advance restrictions on flavoured vaping products to protect public health, especially among young people.

“Flavoured vaping products often come in sweet, candy-like or fruity flavours that appeal to younger demographics, making them more likely to experiment with vaping.

“This can lead to nicotine addiction at an early age, exposing them to long-term health risks and potentially acting as a gateway to traditional tobacco use.

“By limiting access to such products, we aim to reduce the appeal of vaping for young people, curb the rising rates of nicotine dependence and prevent related health issues.

“Furthermore, these restrictions send a broader public health message emphasising the importance of safeguarding future generations from the harmful effects of addictive substances.”

As well as encouraging physical activity at all ages, the health minister said that a school lunch competition was designed to promote healthy eating habits among pupils.

Ms Wilson said: “The competition, launched as part of the Government’s broader efforts to combat childhood obesity and NCDs, challenges students, parents and schools to develop balanced, delicious and affordable school lunches that meet national nutrition guidelines.

“This initiative not only fosters better eating habits but also raises awareness about the link between nutrition, academic performance and long-term health.

“By making healthy eating fun and engaging, Bermuda is taking proactive steps to shape a healthier future for the next generation.”

She told MPs: “Prevention is undeniably the most cost-effective strategy to reduce the burden of NCDs and secure a healthier future for Bermuda.

“However, we cannot do this alone. It requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach — one where individuals, businesses and community organisations work together to foster a culture of health and wellness.

“The Government remains firmly committed to implementing evidence-based policies and initiatives to combat NCDs.

“By prioritising prevention, education and healthier environments, we will improve the quality of life for all Bermudians while also reducing the financial strain on our healthcare system.”

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Ministerial Statement - burden of non-communicable diseases