Healthy dictate or too much nanny state?

The Food and Drug Administration is preparing to ban trans fats, calling for a gradual phase out of the substance from all foods.

I think the FDA, EPA and other government agencies need to just stay out of the way. Again, people are quite capable of managing their food shopping lists without government intervention. How much hand- holding do we need from the government?

Larry Hubble

I think we will see more of this kind of thing, and I think our lawmakers also need to hold accountable all the manufacturers out there that continue to deceive the public about food ingredients and other potentially toxic substances we’re exposed to every day. Not that I like losing freedom of choice, but I would like to see more honesty and truth, and more healthful product ingredients.

If manufacturers were made to pay penalties for using substances known to be harmful, they would soon begin finding ways to produce healthier and safer foods and other products.

Right now, the only tool consumers have is that of avoidance by reading labels ( and hopefully understanding them), doing research and staying abreast of related news items.

Charlie Hare

We always blame the FDA and heath agencies for not looking out for our health. Then, when they make an effort, they are accused of taking away our personal freedom.

Elenor Kovachevich

First the government forces us to purchase insurance. Now it’s telling us what we can eat. Mr. President, may I go to the bathroom?

Tommy Brock

For those who say people are capable of managing their own food choices, take a look around. The really bad stuff should simply be banned. It’s not a question of freedom; it's a question of intelligence. Without intelligence, the only thing that exists is freedom for freedom’s sake, with no redeeming value whatsoever.

Jack Bandy

The government isn’t telling us what we can’t eat; it’s telling food manufacturers what they can’t use. Big difference.

Stephanie S. Mullen Fudge