A doughnut by any other name…
The U.S. branch of Krispy Kreme failed to take the lead in removing those inflammation-promoting trans fats from its sugary, deep-fried confections. They're trailing the British and Australians in making this "healthier" move, with these countries having already converted to using different fat content altogether.
Not that removing trans fats would suddenly qualify their doughnuts as a health food, but at least it wouldn't be one more nail in your coffin.
And guess what moved the U.S. group to finally remove those fats from their products: the opinions voiced by their customers. It seems there is a group of fans on the internet that love their doughnuts, but expressed deep concern over the presence of trans fats in their treats.
They should be concerned. Trans fats are as unnatural a product as what has ever been passed off as a "food" on an unsuspecting public.
The company spokesperson was quoted as saying that the doughnuts are now healthier than before, containing still just 200 calories!
200 calories and healthier? It's just one hand-sized circle of sugary dough, gobbling up a big chunk of your daily calories for the indulgence. While I object to the idea of considering a doughnut "healthier," I can appreciate the fact that they've at least made the move in a better direction.
In the U.S., there is mandatory labeling of all trans-fat-laden foods, and there was much dragging of feet to make the move to just get rid of it altogether. Interestingly, in Britain, labeling is voluntary—but that branch of the company took a stand and went ahead and reduced the trans fat content. Australia bowed under pressure from food safety officials and their government.
But of course, the company had its own fears. When even your die-hard fans are scared, you'd better act quickly. Their profits were starting to dry up, just like one of those circular offerings that have been left in the open air for a couple of hours. In just five years, the company has seen their share value drop by 82 percent. As a result, they've had to trim the fat in their bottom line, too, shutting down multiple stores.
While it's good that the company is joining the no-trans-fat bandwagon, I would still relegate this to the "special occasion" treat. Let's face it: No self-respecting doctor could ever recommend a green light for doughnuts, let alone call them a health food.
