NYC Becomes First U.S. City To Ban Trans Fats In Restaurant Food
The Board of Health has voted unanimously to ban unhealthy trans fats in NYC restaurants, making New York the first city in the nation to ban the oils.
City restaurants are supposed to replace cooking oils containing trans fats by July 1, 2007 and will have until July 1, 2008 to completely eliminate artificial trans fats from all of its foods. The bans will apply to all NYC restaurants -- from the corner fast food franchise to the fanciest French eateries.
Trans fats have been shown to contribute to heart disease by raising bad cholesterol and lowering good cholesterol. Trans fats are formed when hydrogen is added to liquid oils to convert them into solid fats to extend shelf life. The FDA estimates that the average American eats 4.7 pounds of trans fats each year. Learn more about trans fats.
The good news is that New Yorkers won't have to give up burgers, fries, and other goodies to give up trans fats. There are plenty of healthier substitutes. In fact, many food makers have already started phasing out trans fats. Even McDonald's has announced that they are at work on developing an alternative and will be ready for the NYC ban.
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