Assignment:
Discussion: Regulation of Fast and Junk Food
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among people in the United States. Approximately 25% of deaths in this country can be attributed to heart disease (CDC Heart Disease Fact Sheet). Fast food contains a significantly high amount of unhealthy fats, which contribute to the development of heart disease. In recent years, there have been several local governments that have taken action to reduce the amount of trans fat found in the fare from local fast-food restaurants. New York City was the first to enact regulations on fast food in 2005. An overview of the regulations in place on fast foods in New York City can be found in Time Article on Soda Ban. In 2008 Los Angeles banned the building of new fast-food restaurants. This past fall, Berkeley, CA banned candy and junk food in grocery store checkout aisles.
In 2015, the FDA released its final determination on partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats): FDA Final Determination Regarding Partially Hydrogenated Oils. Here are two news articles that came out when the new ban was released: CNN, The New York Times.
Given what you are learning about macromolecules, and based on your own experiences and research address the following scenarios and questions.
1. A Fast food chain is being sued for producing a harmful product. You are a juror sitting on this trial. How would you vote? Why? Are manufacturers of unhealthy food responsible for the health consequences of their products, and if so to what extent?
2. Is it appropriate for local, state, or federal governments to enact legislation regulating fats and sugars found in foods sold at fast-food restaurants? What about foods found in the grocery store or at other restaurants? Why? Why not?
Be sure to site and all websites you use for references.