Does Posting Calorie Counts Change Eating Behavior?
A study published in Health Affairs on October 7, 2009 suggests that it may take more than fast food calorie counts on menu boards to change consumer eating behavior.
Study participants were New York City adults in low-income, high-minority neighborhoods. Because one-third of Americans are obese, it was hoped that posting calorie counts would help consumers to reduce calorie consumption.
Instead, the study indicates that, while the calorie postings did make roughly half of those surveyed more aware of calorie content, what consumers chose to purchase and eat remained about the same.
Of interest is the fact that while about 25% of consumers surveyed said the calorie postings caused them to select items with fewer calories, there were no significant differences in the number of calories they actually did purchase.
New York, in July of 2008, was the first state to require fast food eateries to list, in large print, the number of calories in every menu item. The objective was to help consumers become aware of the calories in fast-food products and promote healthier nutrition.
But as Michael Bloomberg, Mayor of New York City, pointed out, “this is America and you have a right to eat what you want.”
Goodday
I’m new here and just wanted to drop by with a little “hello” message (sorry if I have posted in the wrong section!)
My name is Courtney, mom to two lovely boys, and a parttime soccer coach!
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