Study Finds Calorie Labels on Menus Have Little Impact on Eating Habits

Despite increased awareness of calorie content, UK diners continue to consume similar amounts of calories in restaurants.

A UK study found that mandatory calorie labeling on menus has not significantly changed consumer eating habits in restaurants.
The research, involving over 6,500 participants, revealed that while awareness of calorie content increased, it rarely influenced food choices.
On average, diners underestimated the calorie content of their meals, which typically contained around 1,000 calories per dish.
Experts suggest that additional measures, such as promoting healthy food options, increasing physical activity, and implementing taxes on sugary drinks, may be needed to address obesity.
The UK's 2018 sugar tax has shown some success, leading to reduced sugar levels in soft drinks and lower obesity rates among certain age groups.