California Becomes First State to Require Restaurant Chains to List Calories

California has become the first state to require restaurant chains to indicate how many calories are in their standard menu items. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the legislation Tuesday, which supporters say will give consumers the information they need to make informed, healthier eating decisions.

The law will apply to chains with at least 20 restaurants. Initially they will be given a choice: beginning next July 1, they can either list calorie counts on menus or menu boards, or they may provide pre-printed brochures that disclose the calories, fat, salt and carbohydrates in the food and drinks offered.

By 2011, however, the calorie counts in standard menu items will be required to be listed on menus and indoor menu boards. Drive-through customers must be offered brochures that provide nutritional information about the standard menu items.

Schwarzenegger vetoed a broader version of the bill last year, but signed it into law this week after changes were made.

The National Council of Chain Restaurants has said that they are disappointed that Schwarzenegger signed the bill. They say that the bill discriminates against larger chains, and that it 80% of California restaurants wouldn't be covered by the bill.

While California was the first state to enact such a law, New York City is believed to be the first US city to enact a law requiring calories on menus. NYC's rule took effect in May, but enforcement was delayed until July due to legal action.