Federal menu labeling guidelines delayed

The Food and Drug Administration was expected this week to roll out details on national menu-labeling standards that may require calories, fat and sodium on all menus.

On Friday, however, the FDA was still working out the details.

"We expect only a short delay, and it is a reflection of the complexity of this issue but most important an indication that the FDA is willing to work with all interested parties to ensure the best policy is presented," agency spokesman Michael Herndon said.

The provision, part of health-care reform, is aimed at eliminating the patchwork of local menu-labeling laws that have emerged around the country, most notably in New York City and California. Advocates of menu labeling hope it will help consumers make healthier decisions and convince restaurants to offer lower-calorie options.

It would apply only to restaurants with 20 or more locations.

It has the backing of the National Restaurant Association, whose members say complying with one federal law is easier than dealing with numerous local laws.

Chain restaurants are already required to have nutrition information available if diners ask for it.

"We're just waiting for the guidelines to come out so we can review and react to what the FDA outlines," said Rich Jeffers, a spokesman for Darden Restaurants, which owns Olive Garden Italian Restaurant, LongHorn Steakhouse, the Capital Grille, Seasons 52 and Bahama Breeze Island Grill.

"Right now, it's just available on our sites. We're going to help our customers make informed choices."