Lower Calorie Items Gain Momentum

CHICAGO — A restaurant researcher has found that menu items of 550 or fewer calories are gaining ground in advance of a new federal menu label law. The trend caters to increasing consumer demand for such items. Restaurant chains are also preparing for the pending legislation that will require any chain operating twenty or more units to display nutritional information for all permanent menu items.

Technomic EVP Darren Tristano says restaurants have become more adept at positioning these menu items to consumers. "If you can menu these lighter items in a way that does not make consumers feel as though they are sacrificing flavor or satisfaction, they will be more likely to order them. You can tout them as savory and delicious, as well as better for you, rather than picking just one aspect over another."

New menu items that contain less than 550 calories include:

• Friendly's – Half Turkey Club SuperMelt Sandwich and Garden Salad - 420 calories
• Logan's Roadhouse – 6 oz Filet Mignon under 550 calories
• Carvel Ice Cream – Low Fat Sundae Dishes under 300 Calories
• Taco Cabana - Build-Your-Own Cabana Bowl - Four under 400 Calories
• Fazoli's – New Mini Bakes – 400 Calories
• Carl's Jr. – Charbroiled Guacamole Turkey Burger – 490 Calories