Are You Absolutely Sure You Want Fries with That?

Jan 18th, 2010

Public News Service Kentucky

Super-sizing your next fast food meal in Kentucky may soon include more than just fries and a 20-ounce drink. Legislation has been filed (HB 246 and SB 86) that would require restaurants in the state to post calorie information on their menus.

Anita Courtney, chair of the TWEENS Nutrition and Fitness Coalition, says the bill would make it mandatory for chain restaurants in the state with at least 20 locations nationwide to provide calorie information on menus and menu boards.

"Having that information at the point of purchase has been shown in a number of scientific studies to actually change what people order at about an average of 100 calories less per order."

The Kentucky Restaurant Association opposes the bill, saying it favors a similar proposal contained in the national health insurance overhaul package now before Congress. Other recent surveys have shown in areas where nutrition labeling is already required, the information isn't always accurate.

Courtney, whose TWEENS coalition works with kids ages nine to 13, says families spend nearly half of their household food budget eating at restaurants, so more information about what they're eating is important.

"Restaurants are under no obligation to give us any nutrition information about this food. It's time that changed, because it has been a big blind spot in the American diet."

Polls show that 78 percent of the public supports menu labeling where it's available. Courtney adds that consumers need facts, not guesswork, to make healthy choices.

"To give people a simple way to know what they're eating, make a healthier choice, be more informed - is a good idea."

This type of legislation is not a new concept. Menu labling has been implemented in Seattle and New York City. Kentucky is one of 15 states that have proposed menu labling legislation.

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