Printer Friendly Format Email a Friend


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR- 091-07
March 28, 2007

MAYOR BLOOMBERG SIGNS LEGISLATION REINFORCING BOARD OF HEALTH’S TRANS FAT RESTRICTION

Remarks by Mayor Bloomberg at a Public Hearing on Local Law

“The next bill before me today is Introductory Number 517, sponsored by Council Members Vallone, Gentile, James, Koppell, Nelson Stewart, Sears, Recchia, Baez, Martinez, Dickens and Weprin.  This bill will support and reinforce the New York City Board of Health’s ordinance to restrict the use of artificial trans fat by food service establishments and mobile food unit commissaries.

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in New York City, claiming the lives of more then 22,000 residents in 2005.  Consuming artificial trans fat increases the risk for heart disease by raising levels of “bad” cholesterol and decreasing levels of “good” cholesterol. 

“Beginning July 1, 2007 all New York City food service establishments and mobile food vendors will be required to switch to oils, margarines and shortening (used for frying or as a spread) that have less then 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving.  Restrictions for oils used to deep fry yeast dough or cake batter will be effective beginning July 1, 2008.  Packaged food items still in the manufacturer’s original packaging when served to customers will be exempt.

“I would like to thank Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner Tom Frieden and his staff for their work on this bill and for their commitment and leadership on this issue.  I would also like to thank Council Members Vallone and Rivera for their work on this bill.”







MEDIA CONTACT:


Stu Loeser   (212) 788-2958




More Resources
Watch the video in 56k or 300k