But is anyone paying attention? A study published in the October 6 online Health Affairs looked at whether or not calorie postings in fast food establishments influence diners' food choices. The answer - at least at the time of the study - appears to be no.
Researchers from New York University and Yale tracked customers at four fast food chains in low-income neighborhoods of New York City. About half the customers noticed the calorie counts, which were prominently posted on menu boards. About 28% of those who noticed them said the information had influenced their ordering; 90% of that group said they had made healthier choices as a result.
But when the researchers checked receipts (1,100 of them), they found that customers actually ordered slightly more calories than the typical customer had before New York City's labeling law went into effect, in July 2008.
I think this study strongly supports The American Dietetic Association's labeling policy statement, especially these two principles:
· The label is only a source of information, and thus sustained support for educational programs and individual counseling by registered dietitians is essential.
· Furthermore, consumers should be able to understand the information in the context of their total diet and their individual health concerns.
The writing may be on the wall, but if people don't understand what to do with the information, it's just words. The problem is far too complex to solve with labels alone. Public education - like the Healthy Weight Commitment's multi-platform approach - must go hand in hand with tools like food labeling on products and in restaurants. And it will take time to impart knowledge and to move people to action.
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