Putting calorie counts on menus could cut people’s intake by 12 per cent, researchers say

PUTTING calorie counts on menus could cut people’s intake by 12 per cent and fight obesity, researchers say.

They are now calling on the Government to make including the figures compulsory.

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Scientists analysed data from 28 studies looking at the impact of nutritional labelling on purchasing and consumption. Diners given the info averaged 48 fewer calories —  or eight  per cent — when eating a typical 600-calorie lunch, such as a pizza slice and soft drink.

Other experiments in a lab suggested calorie counts may slash intake by up to 12 per cent.

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Prof Susan Jebb, who worked on the review at the University of Oxford, said: “This should provide policymakers with the confidence to introduce measures to encourage or even require calorie labelling on menus.”  Co-author Prof Theresa Marteau, of the University of Cambridge, added: “While calorie labelling may help, other measures to reduce calorie intake are also needed.”

Caroline Cerny, of the Obesity Health Alliance, said: “When we know the nutritional content of the food we’re eating, the more likely it is that we’ll make healthier choices.”

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