Read menu nutrition
Many restaurants publish nutrition numbers. Knowing where to find them makes it easier to pick a smaller, protein-first order before you get to the counter.
See orders near you
TableMacros uses these same published numbers to show orders at restaurants near you. Finding an order is free in your phone's browser.
Open TableMacros, freeWhere you'll see calories
Under FDA's menu labeling rules, restaurants and similar food places that are part of a chain with 20 or more locations list calories on menus and menu boards, including drive-thru menus. Smaller restaurants that aren't part of such a chain don't have to.
Slashes and ranges
- Two choices, such as two flavors: calories are separated by a slash, like 250/350.
- Three or more choices: calories are shown as a range, like 150-300.
Ask for more
Covered restaurants also have to provide written nutrition information, such as saturated fat, sodium, and fiber, when you ask. Some restaurants also post nutrition information on their websites or apps.
Keep in mind
- The numbers are for the item as listed. Customizations change values.
- A half you box for later is roughly half the listed numbers, not an exact count.
Talk to your prescriber about what is right for you.
Sources
- FDA, "Calories on the Menu: Information for Consumers". www.fda.gov