Catering companies urged to print calorie information

More catering companies are being urged to join a “ground breaking” group, which is designed to inform consumers about how healthy food is.

Dawn Primarolo, public health minister, made this call after 18 major eateries signed up to a scheme to introduce calorie information onto menus from the end of April.

More than 450 food outlets across the UK have agreed to display these details for most of the products on their menus and ensure the information is clearly visible when consumers select their meals.

High street names that have signed up include Burger King, KFC, Marks & Spencer Cafes, Pret a Manger and Pizza Hut.

“We know that people want to be able to see how many calories are in the food and drink they order when they eat out,” Ms Primarolo remarked.

“I want to see more catering companies join this ground-breaking first group to help their customers make healthier choices.”

Last week, a number of local GP practices, sexual health services and hospitals took part in the Department of Health’s You’re Welcome programme, which is aimed at 11 to 19-year-olds to encourage them to use health services.