We expect to hear cries regarding food police, but at first glance, we endorse a new menu-labeling requirement proposed by the Food and Drug Administration that will require chain restaurants and others to post the calorie count for items on their menus.

Under the proposal, the new rules would apply to menus, both in restaurants and drive-through lanes. The requirement would be for chain restaurants with 20 or more locations, along with bakeries, grocery stores, convenience stores and coffee chains.

We said we like the idea at first glance. The reason: We believe consumers want information regarding the contents of the items they eat. We know there is more awareness about obesity and the diseases associated with obesity, and we believe people should have calorie and other health information easily available to them.

We can see where this new FDA proposal could be a little far-reaching and impractical.

Also, some things are left out, such as items available at a movie theater. Dont tell us consumers wouldnt be interested in knowing the calorie count for that tub of popcorn.

We also know the information wont be valuable at all if it has to be printed in such a small font or type size in order to fit on a menu that consumers cant see it.

If this idea is to move forward, perhaps the calorie count should be limited to individual items that are 500 calories or more.

That may make more sense to consumers who are trying to adjust their eating habits within reason. Those items of high-calorie content would certainly be of interest to those seeking a healthier lifestyle.

Providing information to consumers is not a bad thing. At a time when obesity and health issues are on the minds of American consumers, giving these consumers the best information possible could help them tremendously in adjusting their diets to a healthier level.

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