There are a lot of valid arguments against the menu labeling laws, like uncontrollable variances in serving size due to human preparation, and lack of evidence supporting the proposed outcome. However, claiming that providing this information violates human rights, and that the government is trying to control our decisions is just not relevant. Providing information is not the same as limiting ones choices. Furthermore, these ordinances only apply to larger restaurant chains, where busy people probably dine pretty often, not to fine dining establishments where people go to savor the culinary experience.
Reality @ 2:35 PM PDT, Jul 25, 2008
Of course we need to know the calorie content, AND transfats, carbs, fats, etc. etc.. Fast food chains like Subway that do this voluntarily benefit from the claim that they can be part of "healthy eating," giving a choice. NOT that fast food restaurants are always worse -- they can be better if you choose a salad without dressing, throw some salsa or vinegar on it; skip the mayo on a grilled burger. People THINK sit-downs are healthy, but that's often false. Even top eateries achieve taste by slathering on butter, creams, fats that would scare customers if they knew -chefs avoid their own cooking to lose weight.
There are a lot of valid arguments against the menu labeling laws, like uncontrollable variances in serving size due to human preparation, and lack of evidence supporting the proposed outcome. However, claiming that providing this information violates human rights, and that the government is trying to control our decisions is just not relevant. Providing information is not the same as limiting ones choices. Furthermore, these ordinances only apply to larger restaurant chains, where busy people probably dine pretty often, not to fine dining establishments where people go to savor the culinary experience.
Reality @ 2:35 PM PDT, Jul 25, 2008
Of course we need to know the calorie content, AND transfats, carbs, fats, etc. etc.. Fast food chains like Subway that do this voluntarily benefit from the claim that they can be part of "healthy eating," giving a choice. NOT that fast food restaurants are always worse -- they can be better if you choose a salad without dressing, throw some salsa or vinegar on it; skip the mayo on a grilled burger. People THINK sit-downs are healthy, but that's often false. Even top eateries achieve taste by slathering on butter, creams, fats that would scare customers if they knew -chefs avoid their own cooking to lose weight.
jill @ 7:49 AM PDT, Jul 24, 2008