Maine, Hawaii consider menu labeling

The Maine Public Broadcasting Network has reportedthat Maine has proposed a measure to require calories to be printed out on menu boards and at the drive-thru at restaurants with 15 or more establishments nationwide. Similar initiatives have failed to win support in Maine in recent years, but now California has enacted menu labeling legislation and lawmakers in at least 10 states, including Indiana and Massachusetts, are looking at requiring menu labeling.

A storyin the Honolulu Star Bulletin said that proposed menu labeling legislation in that state was strengthened by a recent study linking an increased risk of stroke associated with the prevalence of quick-service restaurant locations. The bill being considered by Hawaii lawmakers would require a franchise retail food establishment with 10 or more restaurants to maintain nutritional information on each standard menu item and have it available for the public upon request.