Hutchinson-based Dillon Stores, owned by grocery-giant Kroger Co., announced Thursday that it no longer would use oils containing trans fats to fry chicken – chicken dinners, chicken wings and chicken tenders – that are prepared in its stores.

“Our customers are interested in healthier options for their family meals and this is another example of how Dillon Stores is providing them with more choices,” said Sheila Lowrie, a Dillons spokesperson.

Recent studies have found diets high in trans fats can lead to increased risk of heart disease and other health issues. Trans fat is formed when vegetable oils are hydrogenated; trace amounts of trans fat occur naturally in all vegetable oils.

Dillons locations now will use a blend of nonhydrogenated vegetable oil, containing zero grams of trans fat per serving. The oil retains the flavor of chicken without compromising taste, Lowrie said.