"Ask Us!" Program Q&A

Download Ask Us! brochure (PDF).

What is the "Ask Us!" Program?
The "Ask Us!" program will provide nutrition information in a greater number of the nation's restaurants so that consumers can make their food choices based on their individual lifestyles. "Ask Us!" will provide resources and tools to help operators make available to consumers nutrition information - at a minimum, caloric value - of select menu items in participating restaurants.

Who developed the "Ask Us!" Program and why?
The "Ask Us!" program was developed by the National Restaurant Association to assist restaurant operators in their efforts to provide nutrition information to consumers interested in maintaining a balanced lifestyle. With consumers dining out more than ever before, we believe the "Ask Us!" program is both timely and appropriate.

Does the program make recommendations on what food to eat?
The "Ask Us!" program is not meant to offer specific recommendations or guidelines for what to eat, but to provide information and tools for consumers to make their own informed decisions.

How many member restaurants do you expect to participate?
"Ask Us!" will be officially launched at our annual trade show on May 21. After the announcement, we will begin disseminating information to our members, and begin signing up participating companies.

From national chains to independent restaurant operators, we have already begun to receive positive feedback from our members. "Ask Us!" augments efforts already underway through many of the national chains, and provides independent restaurateurs the tools to provide information to customers. We encourage all our members to participate.

Don't some restaurants already provide nutritional information on their menu?
Yes, and the "Ask Us!" program continues to build on the great momentum already underway in the industry. These pioneers are to be commended for their early involvement in helping consumers to make informed eating decisions.

How will I know if a restaurant is participating in the "Ask Us!" program?
Consumers should begin to see "Ask Us!" logos at participating restaurants. The logo will let consumers know that these restaurants are taking steps to support their guests in making informed choices when dining out. We also will be highlighting these restaurants on our Web site at www.restaurant.org/askus.

How do restaurants join the "Ask Us!" program?
The National Restaurant Association has worked to ensure that participation in the "Ask Us!" program is a fast and easy process. The first step is for restaurants to register on the Web at www.restaurant.org/askus.

Marketing collateral, including logos, stickers, buttons, table tent templates, and flyers will be provided to help participating restaurants promote their involvement. Recommendations for recipe-analysis software is also available to help participating restaurants determine the nutritional value of menu items.