Metro Boston - You want fries with your calorie count?

State to vote today on posting health information at chain restaurants

Massachusetts could become the second state in the country to force chain restaurants to prominently post food calorie counts, a healthy living initiative that’s gaining traction in the nation’s capital as well.

By Greg St. Martin

The state’s Public Health Council is expected to vote on the measure this morning. If the plan passes, establishments with at least 20 Bay State locations would would have until November 2010 to comply, according to the Department of Public Health.

California passed legislation last year that puts calorie counts next to prices. New York City has also implemented the requirement.

Proponents say having the calorie information on menus and menu boards will help patrons make healthier food choices.

“You make that decision [of what to eat] at the counter of a fast food restaurant. That’s where they need the information,” said Judy Grant, the director of the Value [the] Meal Campaign for Corporate Accountability International.

Peter Christie, president and CEO of the Mass. Restaurant Association, said his organization isn’t against greater access to calorie information but that it shouldn’t be presented in such an “in your face” manner.

“Every once in a while I like to go out and have dinner, and I don’t want to be reminded of it,” he said.

Read the full article here.

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