California Says Goodbye to Trans-Fat

California has become the first state in the nation to institute a state-wide ban on trans-fats in restaurants and retail baked goods. Governor Schwarzenegger signed a bill on Friday that will phase out trans-fats from all restaurants by 2010 and have them completely eliminated by 2011. The policy has already been implemented in cities around the country such as New York City, Philadelphia, and and Stamford, Conn., but as of yet, no entire state has signed the ban into effect.

“California is a leader in promoting health and nutrition, and I am pleased to continue that tradition by being the first state in the nation to phase out trans fats,” said Governor Schwarzenegger. “Consuming trans fat is linked to coronary heart disease, and today we are taking a strong step toward creating a healthier future for California.”

The consumption of trans-fat has been demonstrated to correlate directly with coronoary heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in California. It can be found in some oils, margarine, and shortening, all of which will henceforth be excluded from California kitchens. Infractions will cost restaurant owners anwhere from $25 to $1000.

The ban is one of many actions taken by the state to ensure the health of Californians. Already, California has addressed health concerns with measures such as banning junk food from school cafeterias. These measures will hopefully be adopted by other states in the near future.