Trans fat–yes, we know that you have heard about these terms and have read about them a lot. These are supposed to be one of the main factors that contribute to the outbreak of obesity epidemic. It is noticeable here that the New York City banned the use of trans fats in December, and we have more state authorities that are raising their voice to let the ban hold in their areas also. You would not be surprised by the fact that around in 19 states, bills have been introduced to restrict or banish trans fats in restaurants or school cafeterias. Some bills demand that warnings in establishments that serve foods containing trans fats should be provided. It is clear that the food industry is smarting under the pressure to let trans fats go.

The food industry adopted the use of trans fats because they lengthen shelf-life and improve taste of food items. However, people demanding ban on these say that trans fats raise levels of bad cholesterol leading to clogged arteries and heart disease. However, it is quite clear that the National Restaurant Association also agrees that trans fats should go. However, the industry feels that the private sector itself is developing a plan to curb the use of trans fats, and that government mandates and timetables are not that necessary.

It is quite clear from the situation that both the parties agree on the point that trans fats are not good for general health of public. However, we will need to wait and see how the things progress from here on–the government is bent upon to bring some bills; whereas the food industry wants that they should be allowed to make their own efforts to curb the use of trans fats. We can’t infer that the industry is demanding something unjust; however, the government may also need to consider some other aspects.