In restaurant nutrition guidelines, what is typically regulated that requires displaying calorie counts?

Menu labeling is central to restaurant nutrition guidelines, particularly in terms of providing nutritional information, including calorie counts, to consumers. This regulation aims to enhance transparency and help individuals make informed choices about their food. By requiring restaurants to display calorie information directly on menus or menu boards, consumers can assess the nutritional content of their food, enabling them to choose options that align with their dietary needs and goals.

This regulation often comes as part of broader public health efforts to combat issues such as obesity and related health concerns. Menu labeling is particularly critical in establishments where consumers may not otherwise have access to detailed nutritional information, like fast-food chains and casual dining restaurants. By focusing on calorie counts, the guidelines encourage awareness of caloric intake and promote healthier habits among patrons.

In contrast, aspects such as menu design, ingredient sourcing, and portion control, while important in their own right for creating a healthier food environment, do not primarily focus on the necessity of displaying calorie information to the customer.