New rules requiring chains to post calorie counts

The AP (4/2, Jalonick) said the Food and Drug Administration on Friday proposed new rules that require chain restaurants “with 20 or more locations, along with bakeries, grocery stores, convenience stores and coffee chains, to clearly post the amount of calories in each item on menus, both in restaurants and drive-through lanes. The new rules will also apply to vending machines where calorie information isn’t already visible on the package.” But, movie theaters and any businesses who do not primarily sell food would be exempt. FDA deputy commissioner for foods Mike Taylor said, “‘We’ve got a huge obesity problem in this country and its due in part to excess calorie consumption outside the home. Consumers generally when you ask them say they would prefer to have that information.”