I have been contemplating this idea for some time – “what would happen if the government simply bans trans fats from all processed foods?” – but I did not think it was feasible.

Well, if NYC health department has its way, restaurants in New York City could be ban from using partially hydrogenated oil.

They are not just talking about banning trans fats from fast food joints, but any food service establishment in New York City. Imagine that!

Unsurprisingly, the New York State Restaurant Associating is not too happy about this proposal. They claim this ban will have disastrous consequences:

Cooks would be forced to discard old recipes and scrutinize every ingredient in their pantry. A restaurant could face a fine if an inspector finds the wrong type of vegetable shortening on its shelves.

Is that really true? I do not think so. There is no shortage of oils that do not contain trans fats. Coconut, avocado or canola oils are just a few examples of what they can use.

Wendy’s has voluntary switched to a new oil formula that contains no trans fats, and a number of other food manufactures are making small strides in this direction. Are they doing enough?

According to the Diet-Blog, NY City Council Health Committee could also limit a number of fast-food establishments in NYC. Maybe this is going a little too far – if made with “healthy” ingredients, fast foods could be harmless.

If this trans fats ban passes, it brings up a number of interesting questions. Should government also completely ban smoking?

I do not like the idea of government telling me what I can or cannot put in my body. Is there a difference between banning hydrogenated oil vs. cigarettes? Maybe there is…I am leaning toward looking at this as a food safety issue.