Disease Proof

Someone might have to talk the trans fat makers of America off the ledge. Friday Marriott hotels announced plans to drop trans fat, yesterday we learned Burger King is looking to get rid of it, and today, Michigan is trying to pass legislation that would phase out trans fat by July 2008. John Flesher of the Associated Press reports:

"Protecting the public health is a basic function of government agencies," said Michael Jacobson, executive director of the nonprofit Center for Science in the Public Interest. "When the federal government moves too slowly, states and cities will sometimes fill the void. That's what's happening with trans fats."


Ten states have pending bills to restrict or prohibit trans fats in restaurants: Connecticut, California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and New Jersey.

Trans fat bans for public school cafeterias have been proposed in California, New Hampshire, Texas, Mississippi, Florida and Virginia. A dozen states are considering labeling requirements.