McDonald's switches to healthier oil

McDonald's decided to change the oil they use to cook french fries in order to reduce the amount of trans fatty acids (TFAs) in the fries, according to a press release on www.mcdonalds.com on September 3rd.

It will "probably be awhile" before the change happens, says Four Corners McDonald's Manager Frances Coates. Coates says first the new fries will be tried in test areas, like Texas.

The changed oil will reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering TFAs and saturated fat, explains a Washington Post article on September 4th.

The new oil is just a changed version of the original soy-corn oil that will "cut trans fat in McDonald's french fries by almost half by early next year," the article reported.

Not everyone is convinced of the impact changing the oil will make. Senior Safa Ashrafi does not like to eat McDonald's food and is not planning on changing this habit any time soon, even with the new oil. "I'm still not going to eat at McDonald's," said Ashrafi. "New oil, are you kidding? It's still McDonald's."

According to the Washington Post, nutritionists and the American Heart Association were among those that commend McDonald's efforts setting an example for others to follow. However, the nutritionists also warned the consumers that the french fries are still junk food.

McDonald's promises the french fries will taste the same even with the changed oil. "It's a win-win for our customers because they are getting the same great french fry taste along with an even healthier nutrition profile," said Mike Roberts, President of McDonald's USA on the website.

Senior Diana Alverez, however, is skeptical of the flavor being unchanged. "McDonalds are the best fries ever, and I think it would change the taste. I think it's a bad idea," said Alverez. "If they taste different, no more McDonald's fries for me."

Others are more optimistic. Guitar teacher Danette Buchanan thinks the new oil could be an improvement. "If they can taste as good and get rid of the fat, I think it's good," Buchanan said. She agreed with Alverez about the importance of the taste remaining the same. "If they don't taste good, I won't eat them. French fries are a comfort food," Buchanan said.