(MADISON, WIS.) December 16, 2009 – The American Heart Association would like to thank State Representative Chuck Benedict for preparing and introducing menu labeling legislation. Benedict, a retired physician from Beloit, is introducing legislation that will require chain restaurants of 20 or more locations to display calorie information at the point-of-purchase and make additional nutritional information available upon request.
While the “Nutritional Facts” label on packaged goods listing key nutrient information such as calories has been available since 1994, the same details are not provided on most restaurant menus or menu boards. The American Heart Association believes that educated consumers, armed with the right nutritional information, can make healthier choices when they are eating out.
Luke Rollins, Director of State Advocacy for the American Heart Association said, “The American Heart Association applauds Dr. Benedict for being a leader on this public health initiative. Menu labeling legislation could aid in the caloric intake and obesity-related illnesses such as cardiovascular disease - Wisconsin’s number one killer.”
The American Heart Association advocates for providing calorie information on menus and menu boards, thereby increasing the ability of consumers to make informed choices in the food and beverages they purchase in restaurants. This effort is an important part of a comprehensive approach to addressing our nation’s obesity epidemic and concurrent rise in chronic disease and disability to which it contributes.
“With the number of meals Americans consume outside of the home reaching an all-time high, it’s more important than ever for consumers to have calorie information on menus and menu boards to make informed and healthy food choices in restaurants,” Rollins said.
See the American Heart Association’s
position statement on menu labeling.
About the American Heart AssociationFounded in 1924, we’re the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to building healthier lives, free of heart disease and stroke. To help prevent, treat and defeat these diseases — America’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers — we fund cutting-edge research, conduct lifesaving public and professional educational programs, and advocate to protect public health. To learn more or join us in helping all Americans, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit
americanheart.org.
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