October 15, 2008

In The News: Missing In Action

Ronald McDonald has some 'splaining to do.

His fast-food chain has been "awarded" the most violations for not posting calorie information on various of their New York City stores' menu boards.

In total, 682 violations have been handed out since April.

"About 300 citations were issued during the first six weeks the rules took effect, which was considered a grace period, and did not carry fines. Since then, 388 violations were issued that carry fines between $200 and $2,000 each," reports Crain's New York Business.

McDonald's has acquired 103 violations, Dunkin' Donuts is not far behind with 89, and local fried chicken chain Crown Fried Chicken rounds out the Top 3 with 39 violations to its name.

"Some citations were given for non-compliance and others punished restaurants for not posting information the way the regulations require. For instance, a few restaurants were fined for putting the information in the wrong place or using lettering that was too small."

I notice the linked news article displays a sole comment from someone named "Joe" who claims calorie labeling is "nannying" and "a violation of... life, liberty, property, and the pursuit of happiness."

Considering the amount of people I have heard voice a similar statement, Joe is joking.

For the life of me, though, I have no clue what civil liberties are violated by asking restaurants to post calorie content information.

I also fail to see how such a request can be considered "nannying."

Nobody is being forbidden from buying an 1,100 calorie milkshake. It isn't taxed more heavily than a less caloric option. There isn't a limit on how many times you can order it, or at what time of day.

So where, exactly, is the "you can't tell me what to eat!" defensiveness coming from?

1 comment:

Mandy said...

I believe it to be denial: they'd rather not know than feel accountable for what they're putting in their mouths. Makes sense, right?