Watch: Restaurant Chains Are Now Required to Post Calorie Counts

An FDA Regulation passed in 2010 went into effect this week. The regulation requires that chain restaurants in the US post calorie counts for their menu items. The rule applies to all restaurants, supermarkets, and movie theaters with more than 20 locations. Posting calories allow consumers to make informed eating choices when they’re out.

Chains like McDonald’s have already been in compliance, but consumers will begin to see changes in regional and mid-size chains. Studies have shown that when menus are labeled, the number of calories consumed is reduced by up to 50 calories per visit.