In a recent post, I wrote about some new, healthier options in the Costco food court (Healthier food court items?) Shortly after writing that article, I came across some nutrition statistics for some of the more popular food court menu items.
I appreciate labels on foods purchased at the supermarket but actually do not particularly like seeing nutritional statistics for foods when out to eat. I realize that there are many people who need and/or want to know specific levels of different nutrition requirements (e.g., to monitor sugar, fat, etc…although, there are many reports of the information not being accurate but that is another story…) So, I understand why places post the information. However, I prefer when it is available but not in-your-face (i.e., right on the menu) so that people can have the option of “ignorance is bliss” while indulging (That 5-scoop ice cream sundae can’t be more than 200 calories, right? 🙂 )rather than being confronted with scary statistics when trying to have a good time.
But, given that many people really do underestimate the amount of calories, fat, salt, etc. in items, I can see that it is helpful to have a reality check. So, here is that reality check for you…if you choose to take it.
The article I read got its information from MyFitnessPal (so believe what you will…)
Here are the stats from some common items:
Hot dog: 552 calories (“552”? Really? Are these hotdogs and buns so precise that they can’t just say 550???); 32 g fat (12 saturated); 46 g carbs; 11 g sugar
Slice of cheese pizza: 680 calories (that is definitely a “Costco-sized” slice!); 29 g fat (12 saturated); 36 g protein (win!); 8 g sugar
Chicken Bake: 770 calories; 25 g fat; 78 g carbs; 61 g protein, and 96% of daily sodium (of course, percentages depend on total number which depends on specific caloric requirements but you get the idea…it is salty!)
What do you think? Will knowing these stats affect your choices at all?
What are your thoughts on knowing nutritional stats at all when you dine out?
Cruising Costco 