One of the things I’ve had to adjust to since coming home from New York is the menus here–they are missing something. What are they missing? Calorie counts.
Legislation was passed last year in New York that required all chain restaurants (six locations or more, I believe) to post calorie counts of all menu items. This meant many ubiquitous places in the city had them: Starbucks, Mr. Softee, Au Bon Pain, Chipotle, McDonalds, Cosi, Jamba Juice, and so many more. I got so used to seeing them while I was waiting “on line” (a phrase that New Yorkers use that confused me forever).
Although healthy eating is about much more than calories, posting calories can be a wake-up call to the people who get their breakfast, lunch, and snacks from restaurants (like many New Yorkers). You may see how many calories are really in a coffee drink or healthy-looking food like a tuna melt at Cosi (be afraid, be very afraid). Although protein and fiber are an important part of the picture, calories are a good starting point! When we took the road trip last weekend, it would have been nice to have calorie counts on the menus as I navigated takeout (although the restaurants’ Web sites often provide them, so you can still do your homework).
Now, though, nation-wide calorie counts might become a reality. Even the restaurants, after being blamed for Americans’ growing waistlines, are backing the new legislation that would make it happen. Restaurants with 20 or more locations would be required to post calories and make all nutrition info available upon request. This is especially important at chain restaurants like Chili’s and Applebees, where a salad can set you back 1,000 calories. When you’re out to splurge, you can choose to disregard, but it’s great that the counts are available for those who are watching their calories.
I’m all for anything that helps people make healthier choices!
