Recently, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), a watchdog group that advocates for good nutrition and food safety, sued the fast-food chain KFC in an attempt to prevent the company from using trans fats in its foods. This action was taken despite the fact that restaurants are not obligated to list trans fat amounts in their foods, because CSPI believes that consumers have a right to know how much of this heart-disease causing substance they are consuming. KFC food, like many fast-food choices, is very high in trans-fat. A three-piece extra crispy chicken meal contains 15 grams of trans fat, 13 grams more than one should consume in an entire day.

What is trans fat and why is it so bad for you? This type of fat is generally man-made, formed when vegetable oils are hardened into margarine or shortening. Sometimes this is referred to as "hydrogenated oil" or "partially hydrogenated oil." Many food companies use trans fat in their foods to extend shelf life and enhance flavor and texture. Foods such as bakery items, fried foods, cereals, waffles, and crackers often contain trans fat. There is also a small amount of naturally occurring trans fat in butter and milk products such as cheese, and in meats like beef and lamb

Trans fat, like the saturated fats found in animal products, increases blood levels of LDL cholesterol, known as "bad cholesterol." It also decreases the amount of HDL or "good cholesterol." These effects contribute to clogging of the arteries, and are linked to heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular problems. Recent research has also linked trans fat to increased weight gain, particularly in the abdomen, a body area where excess fat contributes to many health problems.

Today, it is easier to know how much trans fat you are eating than in the past. In January of 2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ordered that all packaged foods must list on the label the amount of trans fat in grams, unless the amount per serving is less than 0.5 grams. Many food companies have voluntarily stopped using trans fats in their products, too.