HometownSource Blogs

Wow. Maybe I’m a mind reader. Or maybe I just have read enough news accounts to see how public policy starts to seep from one large metro area to the next.

In an earlier post here, I even started to wondering when Minnesota fast-food restaurants would be the target of mandatory calories posting and the ban of trans fat. 

Seems it all could really become a reality in my own backyard (since I do live in Uptown).

According to a recent Strib article, the two city councils could be looking at a trans fat ban in both cities as early as next month.

Ordinances are also already in the works to require both cities to post calories on menus and menu boards.

I know, from reading the heated posts following this article, as well as some rather snippity ones that have been posted to this blogger, that many people tend to think this is an infringement on rights and not fair to businesses.

However, I’d like to point out, just because some are speaking out, I’m going to have to say they can’t be the majority, because if they were, then why are similar laws and ordinances already in NYC and California, with Philly also just signing on board.

So, now that a healthier lifestyle, or at least a clearer explanation of what the healthier option is, looks like it could be coming to a town near you, what does it mean to city folk?

Well, places like KFC, Applebee’s and Subway most likely won’t have to change in terms of trans fats since they already don’t use them, or at least are in the process of getting them out of foods. However, if the calories thing starts, expect some changes on menus.

Also, the calorie labeling, if passed, would only apply to chain restaurants with at least 15 locations nationwide.

And why is trans fat being targeted as a reason for increased obesity? Well, trans fat is produced artificially through a process that adds hydrogen to vegetable oil. The end product makes food crisp like and increases shelf life. However, trans fat have been proven unhealthy and raise bad cholesterol and decrease good cholesterol.

And what foods are trans fat commonly hiding in? Certain margarines, soups, prepackaged foods and most fast foods, to only name a few.

I for one am so happy this ban, and calories posting requirement might come to the cities. Even though I consider myself pretty health conscious, there’s just certain foods I can’t figure out. Like I love pizza. Granted, I only eat it about once or twice a month. But when I do, should I be eating one slice, two? And what’s in it?

Of course, there’s also already talk about this ban and law pushing out in to certain suburbs, so if it comes to the Elk River area, how will it change your diet? Do you even really want to know?