GLENDALE Calif. IHOP plans to eliminate the use of frying oils containing artificial trans fats in all of its restaurants by the end of this year, the family restaurant chain said Monday.
The company said that it has been working with its suppliers since last year to test trans-fat-free fryer oils that would not affect the taste or quality of its menu items. IHOP noted that it would continue to work with suppliers to eliminate trans fats from the rest of its menu.
IHOP, based here, operates or franchises 1,319 IHOP in 49 states, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Canada and Mexico.
In July, the company made an offer to acquire Applebee’s International Inc. for $25.50 per share in a deal valued at $2.1 billion. Applebee’s shareholders will vote on the proposed buyout a special meeting scheduled for Oct. 30.