Virginia Senate Backs Phaseout of Trans Fats in School Food

The Virginia Senate voted unanimously Tuesday to phase out the use of artery-clogging trans fats in food sold at public schools, from the cheese pizza in the cafeteria to the chips in the vending machine.

The bill would direct the state superintendent of public instruction to develop guidelines for the elimination of the additive, which has been associated with heart disease, in meals and snacks sold during school hours.

The legislation would not impose a deadline, but lawmakers would follow the issue to ensure that public schoolchildren have healthier food, said Sen. John S. Edwards (D-Roanoke), the bill's sponsor.