Calorie Labeling in New York City Restaurants: An Approach to Inform Consumers

Obesity is epidemic in New York City and the nation, and is the second leading cause of preventable death, after smoking. Thirty-four percent of New York City residents are overweight, and 22% are obese. Obesity is associated with many chronic diseases, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Eating out is associated with higher caloric intake and obesity. In the United States, about a third of all calories consumed come from restaurants and most people underestimate the calorie content of away-from-home foods. When nutrition information is readily available, consumers make more informed choices. For example, half of U.S. adults report that food labels on packaged goods influence their food decisions.

In September 2006, an amendment to the Health code was proposed to make calorie content clear and easily visible to consumers at the time of purchase in certain food service establishments. The Board of Health approved the measure in December, 2006, after a public comment period that was overwhelmingly supportive. Effective July 1, 2007, the regulation requires NYC restaurants that make calorie information available to the public to post calorie content next to menu items on menus and menu boards.

The NYC Board of Health has regulated food service establishments and food safety for over two centuries through its Health Code and associated enforcement. However, using the Health Code and food safety authority to assure access to information needed to help prevent obesity is a novel approach to local government action, with potential for significant impact on obesity and related chronic diseases.