McDonalds adds up the calories on menus

AUSTIN (KXAN) - New federal rules are supposed to make it easier for consumers to make healthy choices when eating at many popular restaurants.

The rules require restaurants to post calorie counts for the items on their menus.

It applies to chain restaurants with more than 20 locations, if those restaurants operate under the same name and have mostly the same items on the menus in their restaurants.

The deadline for those rules has not yet been set, but McDonalds is already leading the way in the fast-food world by showing customers the calorie count on its menus.

"I think it's a really good idea and will help America's obesity," said one McDonalds' customer.

Right now, customers can walk into other fast-food restaurants like KFC , Taco Bell and Wendy's and request to see a menu nutrition list.

But by Monday, calorie facts will be a permanent fixture on the McDonalds menu.

Ginny Haynes occasionally eats at the popular chain and believes it's another way to get people thinking about what they choose to eat.

"We've had this argument before, oddly enough, but I do agree putting forth some effort is helping in a way, " Haynes said.

Those on the run will also see the calorie facts on the drive-thru menu boards, as well.

Mike Benton has worked with McDonalds for the past 40 years. Benton and his family now own 20 stores in Austin.

"I've seen a lot of changes over the years and we're always adapting, " said Benton.

There's even an app consumers can use which allows them to build their own sandwiches.

The nutrition facts will change when a hungry customer takes off or adds ingredients, using the app.

Fifty million Americans eat fast food on any given day.

In displaying these calorie facts, it will make it easier for people to make healthier fast-food choices. Whether they do it or not is up to them.