AFC Enterprises, which operates Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits, became the latest fast-food operator to make the switch to using trans-fat free oil in at least some of its products.
The chain said all of its domestic restaurants are now serving trans-fat free biscuits and French fries with one gram of trans fat per serving.
Trans fats are made of partially hydrogenated vegetable oil. They can raise bad cholesterol and lower healthy cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease, doctors say.
The company said some of its restaurants have been using the new oil since the end of 2006.
AFC said it is still testing a zero trans fat shortening that would lower the trans-fat content of the company's core chicken products, particularly its Cajun and Creole flavored items.
Trans Fats Going, Going ...
According to nutritional information posted on the company's web site, most of its chicken products have less than one gram of trans fat per serving. Its Cajun Wings, however, have 1.5 grams of trans fat per serving.
McDonald's, Wendy's International and Yum Brands, which owns KFC and Taco Bell, have all developed a trans-fat free oil. Others, including Burger King Holdings, are now testing a new oil blend.
