The U.S. Food and Drug Administration wants consumers to think about how many calories they're about to eat when they order at a restaurant.
The federal agency is proposing that restaurants be required to put calorie counts on their menus. The rule would apply to restaurants with more than 20 locations and also include other retail food places such as bakeries, coffee shops and some convenience stores.
A seperate proposal by the agency would require calorie counts on vending machines.
"The proposals will ensure that consumers have more information when they make their own food choices," Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said in a statement. "Giving consumers clear nutritional information makes it easier for them to choose healthier options that can help fight obesity and make us all healthier."
Health care reform requires the disclosure of calorie information. Many restaurants already provide calorie counts, but usually in a brochure or on an Internet site that isn't easily accessible.
Under the FDA proposal, restaurants would also tell people it is recommended they eat a diet that consists of 2,000 calories a day.
You can give your input on the proposal here.