Dive Brief:
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration finalized rules regarding calorie counts in chain restaurants, vending machines, and more, it announced Tuesday
- The New York Times notes the rules span more than what some initially thought. The labeling is required for vending machine food and at amusement parks, in addition to alcohol served at "food establishments" listed on menus and "certain prepared foods in supermarkets."
- "Making calorie information available on chain restaurant menus and vending machines is an important step for public health that will help consumers make informed choices for themselves and their families," FDA Commissioner Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D., said.
Dive Insight:
The FDA says it "narrowed the scope of foods covered by the rule to more clearly focus on restaurant-type food" after taking into account stakeholder and consumer comments, in addition to making other changes. Food labeling continues to be an area of much debate, and these rules will only spark more and more discussion in the industry.