Menu labeling and calorie counts are on the agenda of the new Congressional Regulatory Review Caucus, the National Journal reports. Brought together by Reps. Tim Scott (R-SC) and Loretta Sanchez (D-CA), the bipartisan caucus first met last week.
On the table was the Common Sense Nutrition Disclosure Act (H.R. 6174), introduced by Rep. John Carter (R-TX). NACS supports the legislation, which is a thoughtful approach to providing the necessary flexibility and understanding of convenience store foodservice operations.
H.R. 6174 codifies a less burdensome approach to menu labeling and includes language addressing the types of retail locations that are covered by federal menu-labeling requirements. Specifically, the legislation limits the provision in Section 4205 of the health-care law to establishments that derive 50% or more of their revenue from food that is intended for immediate consumption or prepared and processed on-site. Prepackaged food would not be considered in this equation.
For those convenience stores that would be covered by federal menu-labeling requirements, the Common Sense Nutrition Disclosure Act provides more flexibility with compliance. Retailers could select from several approaches in providing calorie information. For instance, pizza sellers could provide calories per slice or for the whole pizza. The legislation also would allow retailers more flexibility in providing calorie ranges as opposed to a specific number, which is often more difficult to define with made-to-order food. (NACS: www.nacsonline.com)
