Two more cruise lines jettisoning trans-fats

Royal Caribbean's announcement a few weeks ago that it was moving away from unhealthy trans-fats in its cuisine spurred a response from Carnival, a direct competitor in the contemporary cruise market segment, and ultra-luxury line Crystal.

Carnival's press release is amusing, if you read between the lines. Its first sentence declares, "Carnival Cruise Lines, which led the cruise industry by initiating measures two years ago to remove trans fats from its menus, is taking that program to the next level." The clear message to the across-town rival? You kids at Royal Caribbean may have gotten press first on this subject, but we at Carnival were quietly way ahead--two years ago.

While both Carnival and Royal Caribbean have reduced trans-fats, and have plans in place to continually reduce their usage, Crystal is further ahead of the curve.

Crystal put an upscale twist on their announcement, saying not only that trans-fats are totally eliminated effective immediately, but also that a new "oil sommelier" will offer flavored, infused oils to diners to complement their meals. You know how a cruise ship wine sommelier will frequently wear their silver tasting cup as a necklace? What do you suppose an oil sommelier would wear?

Experts say that trans fatty acids are not required and provide no known benefits, increase LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), and also lower levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), increasing the risk of heart disease.

So, good riddance!