| We all know that the historic health care bill is a | | | | location. Now, the federal law will trump the state |
| little porked up. But some of the hidden goodies | | | | and municipal laws, allowing chains to streamline |
| are, well, good. One helpful portion of the bill | | | | the process. |
| requires all restaurants with 20 or more locations | | | | In a year or so, after the FDA has drafted the |
| to post nutrition information in an obvious place. I | | | | laws, you'll most likely be able to see the number |
| certainly wish all restaurants were included, but | | | | of calories in a meal listed right next to it on a |
| this is a good starting point. About 200,000 | | | | menu. Hopefully other nutrition info like fat, |
| restaurants, including major fast food chains, will | | | | protein, sugar, and carb amounts will be included |
| fall under the bill's umbrella. | | | | as well. What a novel idea! No more having to ask |
| Many restaurants are welcoming the change with | | | | for a pamphlet on nutrition info or seeing it on a |
| open arms. Surprising, at first glance, but a closer | | | | wrapper after you've already purchased the food. |
| look reveals that the law could actually save | | | | In the meantime, don't be shy to ask restaurant |
| restaurants a little hassle. Currently, many states | | | | servers exactly what is in a particular dish. If the |
| and even individual cities have their own rules | | | | info he or she gives isn't satisfactory, try a |
| about posting nutrition facts. Big chains have to | | | | different dish or even a different restaurant. |
| keep up with all the different requirements in each | | | | |