Philadelphia Bans Trans Fat

PHILADELPHIA - February 8, 2007 -- Philadelphia is set to become the second large American city to ban restaurants from serving trans fats.

The trans fats are used to deep fry foods and prolong the shelf life of baked goods.

Studies indicate they are a major contributor to clogged arteries and heart disease.

The City Council approved the ban unanimously Thursday, and Mayor John F. Street is expected to sign it.

Once the measure becomes law, restaurants caught using trans fats would not be fined, but would be given trans fat lessons by the Health Department.

The plan will start to go into effect on September 1st. First, oils and spreads containing trans fats will be banned. Then, next year, the trans fats will not be permitted in baked goods.

Foods served to patrons in restaurants in the manufacturer's original packaging will be exempt from the ban.

New York City has a similar ban on trans fats that is also scheduled to be phased in beginning July 1.

(Copyright 2007 by 6abc and Action News. All rights reserved.)

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