We are one day away from the July 1 deadline, when New York restaurants must not use artificial trans fats for frying food. According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 83% of restaurants were not using trans fats for frying on June 1, a full month before the deadline.

As of July 1, trans fat oils, shortening and margarines may not be used for frying and spreading. Exempt from this Phase I are trans fats used for baked foods or prepared foods, and oils used to deep-fry dough or cake batter – they will not be exempt as of July 1, 2008, when Phase II comes into force. The Health Department found that 57% of restaurants are already complying with Phase II.

Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas R. Frieden, said “The vast majority of restaurants are using trans fat free oil for frying. This confirms that the switch is feasible. But many restaurants are still using spreads such as margarine that contain artificial trans fat. These products need to be replaced with widely available alternatives. We will continue to work closely with restaurants to eliminate harmful trans fat.”

Trans Fat Regulation Phase in Short

— July 1, 2007
Restaurants may not use partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, shortenings, or margarines for frying, pan-frying (sautéing) or grilling if they contain at least 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving. Spreads are included in this ban. Establishments that do not comply will be cited, there will be a three-month grace period – after October 1 fines will be issued.

— July 1, 2008
Foods containing partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, shortenings or margarines with 0.5 grams or more trans fat per serving may not be stored, used or served by eating establishments in NY city. Exempt will be foods served in the manufacturer’s original, sealed packaging, such as a package of crackers.

The Trans Fat Help Center

The NY Health Department launched the Trans Fat Help Center in April, 2007, to assist restaurants during their transition. The American Heart Association provided a grant. The aim is to help restaurants switch from trans fats while making sure foods and meals maintain good taste and texture. The following is available to all restaurants in the city, free of charge:

— The Help Line. Restaurants can call 311 to reach the help line for information on the regulation Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. Assistance is also available in Chinese, Spanish, and more than 150 other languages with interpretation services.

— The Website.

— Classes for Restaurant Operators, until December, 2008.

A complete guide to complying with NYC’s new trans fat regulation

Also of interest:
Information about the calorie labeling regulation in New York City restaurants

Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today