1906: British company Joseph Crossfield and Sons attains patent for technology of partial oil hydrogenation
1911: Proctor and Gamble introduce Crisco shortening to America
1950: Use of partially hydrogenated oils to make margarines in the U.S. becomes widespread
1970s: Margarines made with partially hydrogenated oils sell twice as much as butter
1990s: Extensive research shows increase in cardiovascular disease associated with high intake of trans fat
2003: Kraft is sued and pressured to eliminate trans fats in Oreo cookies
January 2005: USDA releases the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, advocating minimal consumption of trans fat
August 2005: New York City health department calls for voluntary elimination of trans fats in city restaurants
January 2006: FDA labeling law takes effect, requiring trans fats to be included on the Nutrient Facts Panel of packaged foods
August 2006: Starbucks eliminates trans fat from all its baked goods
September 2006: Wendy's announces its french fries are now trans fat-free
September 2006: New York City health department proposes required elimination of trans fats in city restaurants
December 2006: New York City Board of Health to votes unanimously to approve ban of trans fats proposed in September
