A five month phase of requirements for food nutrition labeling began August 1 , 2008, in King County and went into full effect at the start of 2009. The regulations were adopted by the King County Board of Health earlier this year. The Washington Restaurant Association has been working with its King County members to understand the new requirements and find options for complying with the guidelines.
The requirements apply to about 1,550 King County restaurants that meet the following criteria and will take full effect on January 1, 2009:
1. Full service restaurants with more than 15 locations that offer similar menu items.
• Nutrition information must be printed in one of five different formats: 1.) on the menu 2.) In an appendix to the menu 3.) In a supplemental menu 4.) In a menu insert 5.) At an electronic kiosk at each table.
2. Quick service restaurants with more than 15 locations that offer similar menu items.
• Nutrition information must be posted inside restaurants only – drive-throughs are exempt until August 1, 2009
