[Greens-Media] Kogarah Council shames Iemma government on fats ban

[John Kaye]

Kogarah Council shames Iemma government on fats ban

Media Release: 27 April 2008

Moves by a Sydney council to ban the use of synthetic trans-fatty acids (trans fats) in new food outlets highlights the failure of the Iemma government to protect the health of NSW residents, according to Greens MP John Kaye.

Commenting on a story on page 30 of today's Sunday Telegraph, Dr Kaye said: "Medical studies dating back to 1990 have consistently shown that trans fats are a key player in the epidemic of heart disease, yet state and federal governments have sat on their hands and done nothing.

"Artificial trans fats are found in many fast foods and some supermarket baked goods, confectionary lines and margarines. They have been added to improve shelf life, taste and texture.

"In Denmark, trans fats have been effectively banned since 2004. The USA, Canada and the European Union are moving rapidly against them.

"In Australia, a complete lack of regulation means consumers are unaware of their consumption of these dangerous and unnecessary artificial fats. The absence of a ban or even compulsory labelling leaves the community's health at the mercy of the food corporations and outlets.

"Our analysis shows that somewhere between 2,000 and 6,800 Australians die each year because of the failure of governments to ban trans fats.

"In the next sitting of state parliament, the Greens will introduce a Bill to compel the NSW representatives on the Ministerial Food Council to move for a complete ban.

"NSW Ministers Ian Macdonald and Reba Meagher should be leading the charge.

"Trans fats are a double whammy. They deplete good cholesterols and increase bad cholesterols.

"They are completely unnecessary and provide no nutritional benefits. They can be eradicated from the Australian diet with little increased costs and massive improvements in health outcomes.

"Kogarah Council is to be congratulated for putting the health of their residents ahead of the convenience of the food outlets. It's time the Iemma government followed their example," Dr Kaye said. 

For more information:	John Kaye 0407 195 455