Introduction: High intake of sodium and trans fat are leading risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Scientific bodies including AHA have recommend reductions in their intake to prevent poor health outcomes. The government of Canada developed sodium and trans fat reduction strategies in collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders. Both strategies resulted in a voluntary approach despite the efforts of the cardiovascular and public health communities to secure regulation. Methods: A mixed method research study was undertaken to assess and analyze the policy making process around trans fat and sodium reduction. A novel content analysis was conducted on the Government of Canada lobby registry which quantified the lobbying efforts of various stakeholders. Next, key informant interviews were conducted with stakeholders involved in the policy processes to better understand contextual dynamics that led to the adoption of voluntary measures. Results: The lobby registry assessment found that the during the policy negotiations, the food industry was significantly more likely to meet with government officials than public health and clinical associations. The food industry also met with higher profile and powerful government officials than health organizations which may have facilitated a greater influence. Based on thematic analysis, the use of scientific evidence and values played a key role in the decision-making processes and the overall effectiveness of the voluntary policy measures. Data and evidence were misused by stakeholders, and this could have contributed to a general confusion about the need for public health policy and regulation. Conclusions: The policy processes around trans fat and sodium reduction were influenced by competing commercial interests which overtook the objectives of public health and clinical associations. As health groups aim to create healthier food environments around the world, it is important to understand and be prepared for the various interpretations of evidence, policy objections and counter tactics of powerful multi-national food companies. Efforts should also be made to strategically align stakeholders who influence public health policy including media, the general public and health professionals.