Nutrition Information Leads to Lower-Calorie Fast Food Meals for Children

Parents presented with nutrition information may select lower-calorie foods for their children from fast food menus, according to the study, “Nutrition Menu Labeling May Lead to Lower-Energy Restaurant Meal Choices for Children,” published in the February issue of Pediatrics (appearing online Jan. 25). At a pediatric practice in Seattle, Wash., 99 parents of 3- to 6-year-olds who sometimes go to fast food restaurants with their children were surveyed about their fast food dining habits. They were then presented with picture menus featuring McDonald’s restaurant menu items and asked which they would select for themselves and for their children. Half of the parents were given the calories (or energy) for each menu item, along with prices based on actual local pricing. Choices included most of the items sold at McDonald’s, including a variety of sandwiches, salads, dressings, side items, beverages, desserts and children’s meals. Parents who were given the calorie information chose 102 fewer calories on average for their children compared with the group who did not have this information. There was no correlation between the frequency of fast food dining and the calories ordered for either parents or children. The authors note that even modest reductions in energy (calorie) intake can help avert weight gain and obesity. Some jurisdictions across the country have already mandated that nutritional labeling be present in fast-food restaurants and on signage and menus.