Sure, We Read the Calorie Charts—Then Eat More

Gets the jump on potential calorie posting law

(AP) - Panera Bread customers around the country soon will be able to tally calories for their smokehouse turkey panini and broccoli cheddar soup with just a glance at the menu board. The firm announced today that it will be the first nationwide chain to voluntarily post calorie information at all of its company-owned restaurants. The move is notable in an industry that had historically opposed requirements that chain operations post calorie counts. More»

(NEWSER) - Many New Yorkers met their first Canadian doughnuts today as the Tim Hortons chain took over 12 locations previously occupied by Dunkin’ Donuts, BlackBook reports. “My frantic runs to Canada to buy tins of Tim Hortons ground coffee are over,” a delighted expatriate said. “Everything in New York is fantastic except the coffee. It’s dreadful. It’s watery.” Some aren’t so happy about the change. More»

Get ready for sticker shock, as nutrition info hits menus

(NEWSER) - Thanks to new laws, calorie counting is back in vogue and bigger than ever, writes the New York Times. After decades of diets that focused on the balance of fat, protein, and carbs, “More and more, people are looking at calories in, and calories out,” a doc tells the Times. Chain restaurants in New York are now required to print the calorie content of dishes next to prices, and the harsh truth is prompting some menu changes. More»

Even 'healthier' options can be too hefty, would-be splurgers horrified to find

(NEWSER) - As chain restaurants waddle their way toward compliance with a New York City law that requires them to post the calorie counts of food, the numbers behind the items have diners grappling with some unappetizing knowledge, MSNBC reports. The restaurant skinny is turning out to be anything but, from 630-calorie Dunkin' Donuts muffins to a pecan-crusted chicken salad at TGI Friday's, whose 1,360 calories trumped a burger and fries on the same menu. More»

Law would affect fast food, chain restaurants

(NEWSER) - That burger might be darned tasty, but New York City health officials are reviving their crusade to give you an accompanying calorie count on menus—this time not just for fast-food joints, but restaurants with 15 or more locations. Chains aren't too keen on the plan, and a state restaurant association is set to sue a second time, the AP reports. More»