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Calorie Labels: Boon or Bane for Eating Disorders?
15 Apr
Summary
- Calorie labels impact people with eating disorders differently.
- Binge eating disorder sufferers find calorie counts reassuring.
- Restrictive eating disorder patients report negative effects.
Menu calorie labelling in England, implemented in 2022 for establishments with over 250 staff, shows a complex effect on individuals with eating disorders.
A study by University College London and King's College London surveyed 1,001 adults with disordered eating. It revealed that 26% found calorie labels beneficial, often providing a sense of control for those with binge eating disorders.
Conversely, 50% of participants experienced aggravated eating disorder symptoms. Restrictive eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, were more frequently associated with negative responses to calorie information.
Experts suggest that while not a treatment, labels may offer temporary control for some. However, nutritionists caution against relying solely on calorie counts, stressing the importance of food quality, habits, and emotional drivers.
The government is reviewing the policy, with optional labelling formats like QR codes being proposed to minimize adverse effects. Eating disorder charities advocate for voluntary calorie menus rather than mandatory ones.
