Will menu labeling help prevent obesity?

According to a recent study I just read - yes - menu labeling will make a difference. In a study prepared by the County of Public Health for Los Angeles: "The results suggest that mandated menu labeling at fast food and other large chain restaurants could reduce population weight gain, even with only modest changes in consumer behavior. In addition, simulations of a range of scenarios suggest that the impact on population weight gain could be greatly enhanced if community education efforts, pricing incentives or other strategies were undertaken to increase the degree to which restaurant patrons use the posted information to select reduced calorie meals."

The healthy food/nutrition subcommittee has suggested that we approach our local restaurants and ask them to consider posting calorie contents on menus or at the very least offer low-calorie options.

If you'd like to read the full study on the menu labeling head to - http://www.cspinet.org/new/pdf/la_co._menu_labeling_report.pdf

They also suggested that the Village Market be approached to offer a "did you know" series - maybe as you walk in the front door Nancy Dolnier could post a little healthy eating factoid (as prepared by the health/nutrition subcommittee) - about healthier choices.

For instance, did you know apricots contain beta-carotene, which helps prevent free-radical damage and protects the eyes. The body also turns beta-carotene into vitamin A, which may help ward off some cancers, especially of the skin. One apricot has 17 calories, 0 fat, 1 gram of fiber. Snack on them dried, or if you prefer fresh, buy when still firm; once they soften, they lose nutrients. This information was taken from the 29 healthiest foods on the planet. For more healthy food options head to: http://www.bellybytes.com/articles/29foods.shtml.