Ontario's Liberal government will introduce legislation that would see it join the ranks of Canadian provinces that are banning trans-fatty foods from school cafeterias and vending machines, Trans fats, often found in french fries and other fast-food cafeteria staples, are being targeted around the world by advocates of healthy eating, who say the processed oil contributes to a host of health problems, including childhood obesity.
Chocolate bars, potato chips and soft drinks have already been banned from Ontario's elementary schools, but the legislation would enshrine that policy in law and eventually expand the junk food ban to include high schools.
The government doesn't want to see schools fined for breaking contracts and will consult with suppliers and school boards before ordering any content changes, she said.
Parents are responsible for their children's eating habits, but he believes they should be able to count on government as a partner in educating kids about how to avoid unhealthy foods and make healthier choices.
Ontario's proposed ban appears to mirror the footsteps of Manitoba's NDP government, which unveiled plans last week to ban the sale of any food containing trans fats in the province's schools. The federal NDP has also been pushing for a Canada-wide trans-fat ban.
An all-party parliamentary task force recommended a ban last year, but the federal Conservative government has yet to respond to the call.
Prince Edward Island and Alberta have a voluntary ban on trans fats, while British Columbia, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador have policies to phase out the artery-clogging compounds, but have not introduced legislation.
The head of the Calgary Health Region has called on the city to follow New York's lead and ban trans fat in all restaurants.
Canadians eat up to 10 grams of trans fats a day, one of the highest rates in the world.
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