Letter to the Editor to The Wall Street Journal on menu labeling

Dear Editor,

Your Thursday, December 4, editorial "Fat Recipe" certainly hits the mark on the issue of obesity lawsuits and nutrition labels. These "quick-fix" actions will do little to help Americans live healthy lifestyles. The restaurant industry is part of the solution to the complex issue of obesity. As an industry of choice, the nation's 870,000 restaurants continually create market-driven solutions, which further underscore our commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles and meeting consumer demand.

Seventy-six percent of meals are eaten at home, but when Americans do dine out, restaurants provide myriad menu options to fit the diverse dietary needs of a diverse population. In addition, many restaurants are already providing nutritional information. Mandated one-size-fits-all nutrition labels, however, would be impractical—if not impossible—as restaurant meals are not a box or a can in the grocery store. Widespread customization of menu items creates virtually endless labeling combinations. For example, 15 sandwich topping options would generate a staggering 1.3 trillion possible combinations. It is important to note that nutritional labels on packaged food items have been available for nearly a decade, yet the complex issue of obesity is still confronting our nation.

Dietary experts agree that all foods can be part of a healthy diet, and the true key to healthful living is through balance, moderation and physical activity—all of which require personal responsibility.

Sincerely,

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