The more than six million pounds of French fries* served in Marriott hotels annually, will no longer be prepared using partially-hydrogenated oils, a primary source of trans fats beginning February 15. 

The elimination of trans fats in fried foods and deep frying oils is the culmination of an eight-year effort to remove trans fats from the vast majority of food served at more than 2,300 Marriott International hotels throughout the U.S. and Canada, including Marriott, JW Marriott, Renaissance, Courtyard, Residence Inn, SpringHill Suites, Fairfield Inn and TownePlace Suites.   

Marriott has already eliminated trans fats from artisanal breads, salad dressings, pancake and waffle mixes, muffins, croissants and cookies at all hotels in the U.S. and Canada.

"Our first objective is always to serve quality food.  We have conducted extensive testing to find the right oils and other foods that have exceptional taste, as well as no trans fats, which is partially responsible for many health issues such as obesity and heart disease" said Brad Nelson, vice president of culinary and corporate chef.   (See Chef Nelson discuss trans fats at www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLOunK15T3E )

He added that Marriott has been working on eliminating trans fats as far back as 1998.  "Good cooking starts with solid principles. Our philosophy of great ingredients prepared simply and with perfect execution is the best way to deliver and exceed our guests' expectations."

In 2003 Marriott introduced the Fit For You program at Marriott and JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts and last year the company introduced the Eat.Drink.Balance program at Renaissance Hotels & Resorts.  Both programs were designed to address healthy eating and dietary issues including low fat, low cholesterol and carb conscious foods.  Food sold in Marriott's retail stores and breakfast, lunch, dinner and room service menus identify which items fit these categories. 

Marriott has been an industry leader in helping its guests to live a healthy lifestyle.  Last year, all Marriott International hotels in North America became smoke-free.  This includes all guest rooms, public spaces, meeting rooms, restaurants, lounges and employee work areas.   Marriott also offers 24-hour access to free fitness centers at all full-service hotels.  

*The number of French fries made by Marriott International hotels in 2006.