Fries Under Fire

All this while McDonald's had said its fries were free of gluten and milk or wheat allergens and safe for people with sensitivities to those foods.

This has suddenly changed and Mcdonald's has quietly added "Contains wheat and milk ingredients" this month to its Web site's french fries listing. Last week, the fast-food giant acknowledged that its french fries contain more trans fat than previously advertised. While for most people it may not matter, it is a big deal for people who are sensitive to wheat and dairy derivatives which are used as flavour in the preparation of fries.

A heathy eating campaign that former President Bill Clinton has just started for public schools in order to combat obesity among young children will focus on the nutritional value of foods; burgers and fries no doubt will be included.

The schools will get help in improving the nutritional value of the food served in cafeterias and vending machines, increasing physical activity, providing health lessons and promoting staff wellness.

"What we want to do is to create a national recognition program shining a spotlight on schools that have done a good job, with concrete, innovative steps to create healthier learning environments for children and healthier work environments for staff," President Clinton said.