A proposed strategic framework for implementing food policy based on New York City's trans-fat regulations

Background: This review critiques New York City's trans-fat regulation and proposes a strategic framework for implementing food policy in other urban settings.

Methods: A qualitative policy analysis was conducted focusing on four key processes of the trans-fat policy development in New York City: 1)policy formulation, 2)public consultation, 3)implementation, 4)evaluation. We conducted a broad literature review, analyzed the chronology of critical policy events, and reviewed documents and reports from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, media, food industry, and consumer groups. Based on these findings, we propose a strategic framework for implementing food policy.

Results: The DOHMH demonstrated a strategic execution of the trans-fat regulation. Adequate scientific evidence for the policy intervention was gathered. Before introducing the policy, critical political and public support was obtained. The DOHMH countered industry objections effectively while remaining flexible to requests from food businesses to modify the policy. They were well-equipped to implement and enforce the policy. The impact analysis of the policy was not well-described. We propose a strategic framework for food policy development that includes four domains: 1)background research, 2)stakeholder support, 3)policy implementation, 4)evaluation and dissemination.

Conclusions: New York City's success in implementing the trans-fat regulation was dependent on clear objectives, realistic requirements, robust background research, strategic political process, reduction of barriers, and swift momentum. Areas of improvement include developing a formal evaluation system to assess the impact of the trans-fat regulations on the population trans-fat intake and health outcomes and the dissemination of this experience to other health departments nationally and globally.