Senate votes to get trans fats out of school food
Students eat the food served in the cafeteria during lunch at Washington Middle School in Springfield, Ill., Wednesday, April 2, 2008. Illinois legislators are considering a ban on trans fats, blamed for contributing to soaring national childhood obesity Seth Perlman, The Associated Press
April 18, 2008
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Senate wants to get those french fries and other high-fat foods out of school cafeterias and vending machines soon.
The Senate voted 33-19 Thursday to remove foods with trans fats added or cooked into them. Foods with naturally occurring trans fats such as meat, milk and cheese would still be allowed.
The removal would take place over a two-year period.
Eight other states already restrict or ban trans fats in schools.
Supporters say it’s an important step to get children to eat healthier, especially students whose only meals come while they’re at school.
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Critics argue it’s unnecessary and could be a big cost burden on schools.
The measure now heads to the House.
