Stanol/Sterol Ester–Containing Foods and Blood Cholesterol Levels

—Considerable attention in the recent past has focused on the potential benefits or adverse effects of butter versus different types of margarines, usually with respect to their relative content of polyunsaturated, saturated, andtrans fatty acids, and the impact of these on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. Recently, a new class of margarines and other fat-derived products (eg, salad dressings, mayonnaise) containing plant-derived sterols that are intended for use to lower blood cholesterol levels have been introduced into the food supply. These products are being marketed as adjuncts to low-saturated-fat and low-cholesterol diets to maximize reductions in LDL cholesterol levels achievable by dietary means.