The war against harmful trans fat in food is hotting up. On September 26, 2006, the New York City Health Department became the first in the country to propose a partial ban on the use of trans fat in restaurant food.

Under a proposal offered for public comment, New York City restaurants would be given six months to switch to using oils, margarines and shortening with less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving.

By the end of 18 months, all other food items would need to contain less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving. Restaurants serving pre-packaged food escape the ban however - they will be able to continue serviing food with higher levels of trans fat provided the food is still in the manufacturer’s original packaging when served.

Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner Dr. Thomas R. Frieden said: “New York City’s restaurants are the best in the world but they can be even healthier. Trans fat is artificially added to the foods we eat and is easily removed. To help combat heart disease, the number one killer in New York City, we are asking restaurants to voluntarily make an oil change and remove artificial trans fat from their kitchens. We are also urging food suppliers to provide products that are trans fat free.”

The public hearing on the initiatives - scheduled for October 30, 2006 - promises a lot of media attention and lively debate. Since trans fat is a major killer in the US and in all other countries eating an American style diet - it's a shame the New York City authorities didn't go further and try for a total ban. Still - at least it's a start.

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