The FDA has published their much-anticipated rules regarding calorie count postings in restaurants and such, and they’re much broader than expected.

The FDA has published their much-anticipated rules regarding calorie count postings in restaurants and such, and the vendors and foodstuffs they cover are much broader than expected.

It’s been known for some time that eateries having more than 20 outposts would be subject to the new guidelines, but many were surprised to see the inclusions of amusement parks, movie theaters and ice cream shops.

Movie popcorn is specifically mentioned, as are milkshakes and sundaes.

Pizzerias will also have to give their customers an idea of what they’re about to consume, but some leeway has been given to account for the variety of possible topping combinations.

By-the-slice caloric ranges have been determined to be sufficient, but the restaurant must specify what they’re calling a single portion.

Businesses affected have a year to get up to speed with the new regulations, but it’s anticipated there will be quite a bit of appealing and fighting in the meantime.

Those in favor of the new rules and their vast scope stress how important it is that American’s have the opportunity to be fully aware of what they’re getting into when they make their food choices.

It’s said that in the US, one third of all calories consumed are eaten away from the home.