AB 97 is a Bill aimed at phasing out trans fats in all California restaurants, starting in 2010. The Tony Mendoza (D-Norwalk) Bill also wants trans fats phased out of all baked good by 2011.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said “California is a leader in promoting health and nutrition, and I am pleased to continue that tradition by being the first state in the nation to phase out trans fats. Consuming trans fat is linked to coronary heart disease, and today we are taking a strong step toward creating a healthier future for California.”

According to recent scientific studies, the consumption of trans fats is linked to a higher risk of developing coronary heart disease, stroke and diabetes type 2. A NEJM (New England Journal of Medicine) report indicates that between 6% and 19% of all US heart attacks and related deaths could be eliminated if trans fats were taken out of the menu and baked goods.

As Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of premature death in California, it is believed that AB 97 will help reduce the number of premature deaths.

About Trans Fats (Trans Fatty Acids)

Also known as trans fatty acids, the consumption of trans fats increase a persons levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein), also known as ‘bad cholesterol‘ and lowers levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein), also known as ‘good cholesterol.

Experts say that trans fats are the worst type of dietary fat

— They promote low-grade inflammation in the blood vessels which increase a person’s risk of developing heart disease.
— The consumption of trans fats is also linked to a significantly higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Trans fats are formed when liquid oils are made into solid fats such as shortening and hard margarine. Their long shelf life and appealing texture makes them popular ingredients in such commercially baked goods as cakes, cookies, crackers and crusts, as well as commercially fried foods, such as doughnuts and French fries.

The American Heart Association says we should limit the consumption of trans fats to just under 1% of daily calories. If the average person consumes 2,000 calories a day, that is a limit of just under 20 calories.

In the USA product nutrition labels can say ‘zero trans fat’ if it contains less than half-a-gram of trans fat – any larger amount must be clearly labeled. If the list of ingredients contains such words as shortening, partially hydrogenated, or hydrogenated it is usually an indication that the food contains trans fats, even when the chart on the label indicates none.

— Boston Bans Trans Fats
— Health Benefits Discovered In Natural Trans Fats
— New York City Restaurants Enter Final Phase Of Trans Fats Ban
— Trans-Fatty Acids And Insulin Sensitivity
— Trans Fat Leads To Weight Gain Even On Same Total Calories, Animal Study Shows

Written by – Christian Nordqvist