Nassau County lawmakers may follow in New York City's footsteps by banning the use of trans fats in restaurants.

Health experts say artificial trans fats are particularly dangerous and more likely than natural fats to cause heart disease when consumed over long periods of time. If the county forbids restaurants from using trans fats, consumers will likely pay a price for the health benefit. One Oceanside knish producer uses 3,000 pounds of margarine per week. A margarine substitute costs 13 cents more per pound, a cost that would be transferred to customers.

Many residents are in favor of the ban, saying the health benefits outweigh other costs or inconveniences. Others disagree with the ban. Critics say trans fats don't deserve the attention that cancer-causers like cigarettes should be getting.

Related Information U. S. Food and Drug Administration