Several local restaurant owners have been awarded the Eating Smarter designation by Bismarck Burleigh Public Health (BBPH) and Go! Bismarck Mandan. Bismarck restaurants receiving the Eating Smarter designation include Peacock Alley, Qdoba, Mr. Delicious, Sonnets, and McDonald’s. Each business awarded the Eating Smarter designation offers menu items that meet specific criteria to make it easier for patrons to make healthy food choices when dining out. Participating restaurants signify healthy food choices on their menus with the GO! Bismarck Mandan “stamp”. The “stamp” means that the menu item is lower in calories, fat, and sodium and incorporates whole grains, fruits or vegetables and smaller portions. “These restaurants are to be applauded not only for meeting nutritional criteria voluntarily, but for supporting public health efforts to build a healthier community”, said Wanda Agnew, BBPH dietitian.
“Local restaurant owners and foodservice programs are invited to come on board and participate in the Moving More Eating Smarter program to help make healthy choices the easy choice”, said Agnew. Bismarck Burleigh Public Health provides a free nutritional analysis of recipes and menu items and recognition for participating restaurants and food service programs that meet the nutrition guidelines. To view a list of Eating Smarter participants visit www.bismarck.org/publichealth and www.gobismarckmandan.org
In North Dakota, over 60% of adults are reported to be overweight or obese and fewer than 30% eat the recommended amount of fruit or vegetables needed to reduce the incidence of chronic disease (2009 BRFS, www.healthynd.org )
According to the Restaurant Industry Association's forecast it estimates that by 2015 about 53 percent of each dollar spent on food will be spent in restaurants. In 2009, the National Restaurant Association’s Industry Forecast reported that three out of four adults are trying to eat healthier at restaurants to improve their health.
For more information about the Moving More Eating Smarter Recognition Program visit www.bismarck.org/publichealth or contact Wanda Agnew at 355-1555.