Letter to Fort Worth Star-Telegram on moderation, exercise and responsibility, published October 31, 2003

I take strong issue with a recent Fort Worth Star-Telegram article ("One Anti-Obesity Crusader Targets Food Industry," 10/27/2003)) chronicling the ideas of Kelly Brownell, who makes a habit of attacking America's favorite foods and the restaurants that serve them.

Brownell presents too simplistic a view of the complex issue of obesity. What he neglects to include in his "culture of victimization" theory is that 76 percent of all meals are eaten at home. When Americans do eat out, they have myriad menu options and venues available from the nation's 870,000 restaurants. And, National Restaurant Association research shows that 95 percent of individuals feel qualified to make their own dietary choices, and more than two out of three say they are tired of the "food police" telling them what to eat. The restaurant industry has a longstanding commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, and dietary experts everywhere agree that all foods can be part of a healthy diet. The true key to a healthful living is through balance, moderation and physical activity—all of which require personal responsibility.

A recent Gallup poll revealed no correlation between overweight conditions and dining at quickservice restaurants. To solely place the blame on certain foods is misleading, and does a disservice to those Americans who are struggling with weight issues.

The restaurant industry is an industry of choice, and those choices are on menus everywhere. Visit the Association's Web site, www.restaurant.org, to learn more about healthy lifestyle tips and eating smart when dining out.

Sincerely,

Steven C. Anderson
President and Chief Executive Officer
National Restaurant Association
Washington, DC