​Calorie Counts on Menus: A Law That Missed the Mark?

Mandatory calorie labelling, introduced in April 2022 for businesses with more than 250 employees, aimed to encourage healthier eating choices. However, a recent study published in Nature Human Behaviour suggests that legislation has not significantly influenced consumer behaviour.

According to the research, only 31.8% of diners reported noticing calorie information on menus after the policy was implemented, a modest increase from 16.5% before its implementation. Despite this rise, the impact on ordering decisions remains minimal. Of those who noticed calorie counts, only 22% said it influenced their choices, compared to 19% before the law.

The findings also reveal demographic differences. Older adults were more likely to pay attention to calorie information than younger adults, though this did not translate into altered decision-making. Similarly, more women reported noticing the labelling than men. Interestingly, diners were likelier to spot calorie labels in pubs than in cafés, potentially due to varying dining environments.

The introduction of mandatory calorie labelling has been met with mixed reactions. Critics have highlighted the financial burden on businesses and raised concerns about the potential negative impact on individuals with eating disorders.

The study offers valuable insights into consumer behaviour, suggesting that while calorie labelling may raise awareness, it falls short of driving meaningful behavioural change. As public health strategies evolve, the question remains: is mandatory calorie labelling enough, or are broader approaches needed to encourage healthier eating habits?