Last year, the city banned these bad fats from restaurants and fast food outlets. The consumption of so-called “trans” fats is in fact held responsible for certain cardiovascular diseases. Since July 1, the New York health authorities have banned the use of these fats in the manufacture of pastries.
Now, all foods served in New York City must contain less than 0.5 grams of “trans” fat per serving, as determined by the Department of Health. Products containing them can still be purchased in supermarkets for example, but since January 2006, the American government obliges the food industry to indicate their presence on the packaging.
Trans fats, often called “bad fats”, are fatty acids that have been industrially modified to make dishes look better. Studies conducted over the past ten years show that they increase cholesterol levels and the risk of heart attacks in people who consume it.
