Province makes counting calories easier in 2017 with new menu rules

Most New Year’s resolutions include admirable, but usually short-lived attempts to count calories and drop a few pounds.

But Ontarians could be better equipped to meet their health goals in 2017 thanks to the provincial government.

Staring January 1st, food service providers will be required to include calorie counts on menus, labels and tags at restaurants, coffee shops, convenience and grocery stores, and even movie theatres.

The new rules apply to food providers with 20 or more locations in Ontario.

“By requiring restaurants and other food service chains to post calorie information publicly, we are helping people in Ontario make informed, healthy decisions for themselves and their families,” Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, said in a release.

“Inclusion of nutrition information on menu boards marks a bold step by the Ontario government,” added Leslie Whittington Carter, Dietitians of Canada. “Dietitians are pleased to see the incorporation of recommendations they made during the consultation process. Education and evaluation are important next steps to ensure the long-term success of this initiative.”

QUICK FACTS (Ontario government)

•    Food service providers are also required to post an educational statement for customers about average daily caloric needs.
•    Calories are a measure of how much energy is in the food we eat. Knowing how many calories are in our food can help us get the right amount of energy for our needs.
•    Individual calorie needs vary depending on a number of factors, including activity level, age and gender.
•    For more information, please refer to Health Canada’s Estimated Energy Requirements.