Colorado Takes a Bite Out of Obesity
Our country’s obesity epidemic is frequently blamed on dining out. Americans spend almost half (44.4%) of their food dollars on foods away-from-home according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2005 Consumer Expenditure Survey. Often restaurant meals are higher in calories and fat and lower in nutrients than meals eaten at home, so the blame is not completely unfounded.
It looks like the trend of eating out will continue to grow. What can restaurant owners and managers do to better educate their guests about the nutritious selections available on their menu? The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment has an answer—they’ve established the Smart Meal Seal initiative, part of the Small Steps for Healthy Leaps program. They team up with restaurants to help identify menu items that meet specific nutrition criteria. Once a dish qualifies the restaurant can use the State’s Smart Meal Seal logo on their menu to help customers identify healthier dishes. Consumers eating an identified Smart Meal dish can be assured that it’s a nutritious choice. To earn the seal a dish must be lower in total fat (30 percent or less of total calories), saturated fat and sodium, free of trans fat, 700 calories or less and include components such as beans, whole grains, fruits or vegetables.
The State’s program is picking up speed as food giants like McDonald’s get on board. If your restaurant is interested in participating you can contact Barry Strand with the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment at Bstrand@cdphe.state.co.usus or 303-692-2574. As the State’s suggested nutrition analyst, On The Menu can determine if your menu items qualify for the seal. We will assist you with recipe modification to guarantee qualification. Your participation in this state-wide program guarantees your restaurant the support and endorsement of the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment.