DeLauro Praises Benefits of Menu Labeling

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-3) held a press conference today to discuss the menu labeling provision included in the health reform legislation signed into law by President Obama last week.

The provision, which is based on menu labeling legislation that Congresswoman DeLauro originally introduced in 2003, will require restaurants with 20 or more business locations to display the caloric and nutritional information of their food options on the menus and menu boards. It will enable customers to clearly see the nutritional benefits of a restaurant's menu items and help them make more informed decisions about their food choices.

Congresswoman DeLauro said, "It is so important for consumers to be aware of exactly what they are eating, and to use that information to make more informed and healthy choices. With childhood obesity rates tripling over the last 30 years, this legislation is imperative to the health of our nation. I am enormously proud to see this provision included in our health reforms, and I think it is one of many steps in this legislation that will combat obesity, cut health care costs, and improve and enhance the lives of all Americans as we move forward."

The Congresswoman was joined at the press conference, held at the North Haven Olive Garden Restaurant, by Bob McAdams of Darden Restaurants (parent company of Olive Garden), Kelly Brownell of the Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, and Scott DeFife of the National Restaurant Association