The recent release of KFC's 540-calorie Double Down sandwich initially prompted the Ontario Government to consider reviewing the sale of the sodium-heavy concoction.

Health Promotion Minister Margarett Best quickly recalled this statement, however, amid some commotion. Ms. Best had just rejected the recommendation of banning smoking in apartment buildings when she said that investigating the Double Down would be an option.

Ms. Best's office later issued a statement "reiterating" that consumers have the right to choose the food they purchase and consume.

The Opposition said it had expected Premier Dalton McGuinty to ban the sale of Double Downs, following his frequent attempts at what the Tories are calling social engineering.

Instead of discussing bans the New Democrats suggested that the Government adopt their bill, which calls for foods sold in restaurants to be labelled with their calorie, sodium and fat content.

Health experts and nutritionists have expressed concern. Dieticians have also raised the issue of the Double Down's high sodium content, which in the long run contributes to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for stroke and cardiovascular disease.

Trevor Norris, a consumer specialist at the University of Toronto, believes that it is time for the government to protect people from corporations that create major burdens on society, such as future healthcare costs resulting from unhealthy fast food products.

The Double Down went on sale across the country on Monday and will be available for one month to see how consumers respond.