When Calories on Listed, People Pay Attention

New Yorkers are paying attention to what the calorie intake are at fast food restaurants, according to a recent study.

One out of every six fast food customer considers the calories posted when making a purchasing decision, according to the British Medical Journal. Customers who did not use the information eat 106 calories more than people who did consider the calories. 

Dr. Thomas Farley, New York City Health Commissioner, said, in a press release. “New Yorkers who want to limit their calories are using posted calorie information to do so.” 

“Posted calories listings help customers make healthier choices.” Said Farley. “Considering the extremely high rates of obesity, these types of systematic changes to the food environment are needed to make a difference in combating today’s obesity epidemic,” according to Dr. Thomas. 

The percentage of New York City adults and children who are overweight is the highest its ever been. Since the restaurant were required to post the calories in March 2008, KFC customers are purchasing 59 fewer calories; McDonalds customers are purchasing 44 fewer calories – according to the study. 

Dr. Lynn Silver, director of the Office of Science and Policy in the health department, said in the statement, “As calorie labeling spreads nationwide and internationally, more consumers will be able to easily access calorie information and restaurant chains will have a greater incentive to reformulate their products and offer healthier options.” 

Even though Dr. Lynn Silver says labeling the calories will not stop obesity in America, she does say it’s a step in the right direction.