Make sure it's Natty PB
http://www.cyfc.umn.edu/publications/newsreleases/7-24-03nr.html
What's all the flap about trans fat?
Trans fat has been a hot item in the media lately. What’s all the uproar about, and what does it have to do with families?
The Food and Drug Administration has just ruled all food labels must list the trans fat content by 2006. The basis for the FDA’s decision is clear scientific evidence showing trans fat increases “bad” cholesterol and lowers “good cholesterol” levels, and thus significantly increases a person’s risk of heart disease.
Trans fat, also called trans fatty acid, is created when a fat that is normally liquid is processed to turn it into a solid. Common examples include shortening and some margarines. The process is called “hydrogenation.” The more a fat is hydrogenated, the more solid it becomes, and the more trans fat it contains. Trans fat also occurs naturally in some animal-based foods.
In planning healthy meals for individuals and families, there are some important things consumers should know about trans fat.
Why do food manufacturers process food products in this way? There are two major reasons for hydrogenating fats: to increase shelf life and to make the products more appealing to consumers.
Why is trans fat a concern? It is a concern because of the strong link to heart disease.
What foods contain trans fat? Shortening and solid margarines, and foods that are made with or fried in them contain trans fat. Examples include crackers, cookies, other snack foods, candies, some salad dressings, and many processed foods like French fries. Some foods have trans fat added to make them more solid and appealing to consumers. An example of this is peanut butter. When the only ingredient is peanuts, the oil in peanut butter will separate and rise to the top when left at room temperature. The oil can be stirred in and the peanut butter refrigerated to keep this from happening. With most commercial peanut butter, however, some hydrogenated, or trans fat is added to keep the peanut butter solid at room temperature, which seems to be more pleasing to consumers.
How do I know if a food contains trans fats? If the ingredient list includes the words shortening, partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, or hydrogenated vegetable oil, the food contains trans fat.
Should I completely cut trans fat out of my diet? While everyone needs some fat in their diet for their bodies to function properly, there appears to be no beneficial value from trans fat. Therefore, the less trans fat consumed, the better. Instead, eat healthier fats such as olive oil, canola oil, soybean oil, omega-3 fatty acids, and other unsaturated fats, and try the softer margarines that are much lower in trans fat. (One word of caution: even these healthier oils contain trans fat if they are hydrogenated.)
While the concern about trans fat does not mean you should stop eating your favorite foods or totally eliminate fats altogether, it is important to consider as you plan balanced eating for yourself and your family.
Please Scroll Down to See Forums Below 
