The phase out of artificial trans fat in restaurant foods took effect in two stages. First, as of July 1, 2007, NYC food service establishments have been prohibited from using oils, shortening and margarine containing artificial trans fat for frying or as a spread that have 0.5 grams or more of trans fat per serving. As of July 1, 2008, all foods must have less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving if they have any artificial trans fat. Packaged foods served in the manufacturer's original, sealed packaging are exempt.

On December 5, 2006, the NYC Board of Health approved an amendment to the Health Code to phase out artificial trans fat in all NYC restaurants and other food service establishments. It is now in full effect.

Acceptance of the first phase of the trans fat regulation has been very high, with more than 98% of inspected restaurants in compliance. Some food chains and cooking oil manufacturers have not only eliminated trans fat but also reduced saturated fat by 20% to 35% in certain fried foods, further boosting the health benefit for consumers.

The Trans Fat Help Center - a free resource for all New York City food professionals - offers NYC food service establishments information, completely free of charge, on how to replace artificial trans fat, Trans Fat 101 classes, and information on 0 grams trans fat products.

The Help Center provides:
*Web resources such as 0 grams trans fat product listings, detailed FAQs about the New York City trans fat regulation, and web links.

*A Telephone Help Line staffed by culinary advisors, offered Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. Helpline attendants include speakers of Spanish and Chinese; simultaneous translation is available for 150 other languages.

*Monthly classes for food professionals on artificial trans fat replacement.

* Brochures on artificial trans fat replacement, available through the mail and online in multiple languages

The Trans Fat Help Center is housed at the New York City College of Technology (CUNY), home to one of the leading professional culinary schools in the Northeast. The Help Center is advised by City Tech faculty and other distinguished local and national experts in culinary arts and cultural food traditions.

The Trans Fat Help Center is supported by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and by an educational grant from the American Heart Association.