Abrahams says ‘County’s food concessionaire will make snack bars trans-fat free.’

Nassau County Legislator Kevan Abrahams (D-Hempstead) applauded food concessionaire Butch Yamali of Dover Caterers, after he announced that all of the county’s food concessions will be serving “trans-fat free food and a healthy line of snacks.”

“This is a wonderful example of how people in the food service industry are showing regard for the health of their patrons, without the need for legislation forcing them to do so,” said Abrahams. “I have always believed that education and a competitive market place would be the answer to the trans-fat question, rather than attempting to pass a law dictating what people should do.”

Dover Caterers is responsible for the food service at the nearly dozen concession stands located in Nassau County’s parks and pools.

“We at Dover are happy to be leading the way toward bringing healthy food and snack choices to Nassau County’s beautiful parks,” Yamali said. “We are pleased to bring healthier foods to Nassau’s parks by eliminating trans fats from our snack bars and refreshment stands and by adding healthier selections to our menu. It’s important that all of our customers be offered healthy selections so they can make healthy choices.”

Taub-Dix praised the move by Dover Caterers, saying, “What better time to start protecting your heart than around Valentine’s Day, and what a great way to cut your risks by cutting down on trans fats,” said Bonnie Taub-Dix, National Spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association and nutrition consultant. “Heart disease accumulates over a lifetime, so by eliminating trans fats, particularly in snacks, we can reach Nassau county residents of all ages and set a good example for our children.”