Whether you are a native New Yorker, daily commuter, avid theater goer, or lucky tourist, a visit to NYC might mean stopping by a coffee shop (like Starbucks) or a fast food establishment (like McDonalds… if only to grab an inexpensive selection off the “value” menu). I Love NY (just like the commercial for tourism brags), but since the menu labeling law went into effect in July of 2008, I’m not sure everyone loves the new calorie labeling law. Imagine selecting a “Pumpkin Spice Frappaccino” (grande size) and an Apple Bran Muffin at Starbucks. That adds up to 400 calories for your beverage and 470 calories for your ‘lil muffin-yes, a whopping 770 calories. With those numbers staring you in the face, what would you do? Stay with your original order? Or would you switch your selection to a “Full Brewed Coffee” (less than 10 calories) with a bowl of Starbuck’s oatmeal (140 calories)? Feel free to do the math.
Several studies have been done with conflicting results. Researchers at New York University and Yale University studied over 1,100 adults who ate at Burger King, KFC, McDonald’s and Wendy’s right before and after the law was put into effect. They found no change in customer habits. However, they only focused on low income areas of the city.
But this past week a new study came out by the city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene which showed that people have started to purchase food with fewer calories at thirteen fast food restaurants and coffee chains. This study included a much broader group of individuals. But is posting the calories really helpful in the long run? Or are those people who are already health conscious making even better choices?
I believe that if you are concerned about the calories you take in, the postings will alter your menu selection. But if the intent of the law is to help fight obesity for the economically disadvantaged, then nutrition education is the real answer. Of course, I always preach “good choices” when dining outside of the home. Perhaps consider eating before you go out so you are not starving when “good choices” might not be available. Consider bringing a snack with you always a good choice economically. Portion control when eating away from home is also a huge issue. Chain restaurant menus should be expanded to include more raw foods such as fresh “appealing” salads and lean protein meals. These additional tasty offerings will benefit city slickers who are always on the go! The bottom line is that calories are not the only nutrient provided by food. More funding is needed for well planned, consumer friendly, nutrition education programs. The ultimate goal should be to provide education to consumers so that they have the “tools” to make informed food choices. Check out these great tips from the American Heart Association on nutritious restaurant choices.
And of course, improving the menus of chain restaurants will enable all of us to eat well feel well…. and be well. Which is my wish for all of you!