Disneyland to Free Itself From Trans-Fats

Food served at all Disney theme parks will be free of trans fats by the end of 2007, the company said in a statement on Monday. Limits on the calories, fats and sugar content of all foods marketed with the well-known Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse will also be imposed, according to company spokesmen.

Disney's move comes on the heels of growing media attention on the climbing obesity rates among children in the U.S. Sources say that Disney looked to make the move after its exclusive 10-year deal with McDonald's "Happy Meal" sponsorship came to an end this year.

The Skinny

According to company press statements, added sugar in the new "Disneyfied" foods will not exceed 10 percent of calories for main and side dishes and 25 percent of calories for snacks. Total fat will not exceed 30 percent of calories for main and side dishes and 35 percent for snacks.

Disney CEO Robert Iger comments on the move: "The Disney brand and characters are in a unique position to market food that kids will want and parents will feel good about giving them."

Outside the Disney theme parks, most of the other changes will occur within the next two years.