An agreement was announced yesterday that creates a uniform national nutrition standard to provide more information to consumers when they dine at restaurants. U.S. Senators Tom Carper (D-DE), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Tom Harkin (D-IA), negotiated the agreement to establish a uniform national nutrition standard.
“Thanks to the dedicated effort of Senators Carper, Murkowski and Harkin, more consumers across the country will have the opportunity to get consistent nutrition information when they dine out because a uniform national standard has been developed in a way that works for guests and restaurants," said Joe Taylor, co-chair of The Coalition for Responsible Nutrition Information (CRNI).
Under this agreement, restaurants with 20 or more locations will be required to disclose on a menu, menu board, or drive thru board the number of calories per menu item, a statement about suggested daily caloric intake, and a statement concerning the availability of more extensive nutrition information—such as trans fats, saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium.
The menu labeling law could be included in health reform legislation expected to be discussed in Congress over the next few weeks.
"America is facing an obesity epidemic which must be addressed at the national level," said Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski. "This compromise will allow Americans to be informed about the nutrition content of their foods prior to the point of purchase."
About one-third of U.S. adults are obese, a condition that increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer and other health problems.
"Thanks to this negotiated agreement, we are one step closer to providing consumers consistent access to the same nutrition information in restaurants from coast to coast, whether eating out near their home or traveling," said Beth Johnson, CRNI co-chair.
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