Influence of differing types and formats of menu labeling

Objective Nutrition labeling on restaurant menus is now required in some locations. This research investigated the influence of type and format of menu nutrition labeling on consumers' ability to estimate calories and their intended purchases. Methods Young adults (N=464) were surveyed using one of six different menus. Menu versions included control, calories only, guideline daily amount system, better for you symbol, index value, and a traffic light system. Results Overall, menus with nutrition information analyzed by three calorie groupings were related to fewer calories ordered (1346 vs. 1569 calories ordered) and improved ability to estimate caloric values (586 vs. 821 calories estimation error), x 2 (2, 442) = 11.11, p < 0.01 and x 2 (35, 442) = 62.27, p< 0.01, respectively. The guideline daily amount system had the largest decrease in calories ordered (1003 calories ordered). The calories only menu had the smallest error between actual calories ordered and ability to identify calories ordered (237 calorie estimation error). Females were more likely than males to decrease calories ordered when nutrition information was present x 2 (2, 442) = 8.88, p <0.05. Conclusions Research on the influence of type and format of nutrition information on menus with other populations is needed. Results of this and future research needs to be considered when developing menu labeling policies.