The prevalence of heart-healthy menu items in West Virginia restaurants.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of heart-healthy choices offered in restaurants. METHODS: Menus (N=273) were obtained from restaurants in the 10 most populated cities in West Virginia. A survey assessed the number of restaurants that provide point-of- purchase nutrition information and the heart-healthy choices offered. RESULTS: One restaurant offered point-of-purchase nutrition information. Nine percent of restaurants identified heart-healthy choices on their menus. There was a high frequency of offering vegetarian entrees, light side dishes, and vegetables; however, much less fruit, low-fat milk, low-fat salad dressing, or heart-healthy desserts were on menus. CONCLUSION: There is much opportunity for providing and identifying heart-healthy choices in restaurants.