This story has it all!
1. Irony
The Baltimore City Health Department issued its first environmental citation for repeat violations of the city’s trans fat ban.
The Health Department issued Healthy Choice, a food facility in the 400 block of Lexington Street, a $100 fine on Thursday.
2. Trans fat agents
“It was the second time they were found with a high trans fat level in their ingredients,” said Health Department agent Juan Gutierrez.
3. An investigation
Officials said that during inspections in July and this month, the facility was found to be using a margarine product with trans fat levels in excess of what the law allows.
The law banning food facilities from serving or selling non-prepackaged food items containing 0.5 grams or more of trans fats went into effect in September 2009.
4. Someone named Oxiris on a power trip
“While we are pleased with the high rates of compliance we’ve seen since the ban took effect, we will continue to sanction businesses that repeatedly fail to comply.” – Dr. Oxiris Barbot, Commissioner of Health
5. Absurd rules
“They originally had a margarine that was above 3 grams, actually, which is very high compared to the .5 that is allowed. Then when we came back and they had replaced it, they replaced it with one that was 2 grams, so it still was too high,” Gutierrez said.
The facility discarded the products in both instances, health officials said.
6. Pushovers
“I think they’re doing it right. They’re doing what they have to do,” Healthy Choice owner Ki Jeong said.
7. Higher prices for consumers
Jeong said he will abide by the decision but said the new margarine will cost him double what the original type costs.
