The New Restaurant InitiativeThe New Restaurant InitiativeArizona Smart Choice ProgramArizona Smart Choice Program

Presented by Cindy Aron, MS, RDNutrition Coordinator

Nutrition and Physical Activity Program

For the Arizona Nutrition Network Partner Training Meeting“Obesity Prevention – The New Frontier”

March 12, 2008

History

• January 29, 2007– State Bill 1436 introduced by Senator Amanda Aguirre– To require fast-food and other chains to post nutrition

information on menus and menu boards– More information available at http: www.azleg.gov

History

• Spring 2007– Senator convened group of community, health,

and restaurant leaders = stakeholders– Statewide restaurant initiative was established

Restaurant Initiative

• Purpose– Raise awareness of importance of good nutrition when

dining out

– Support restaurants in offering healthy food choices

– Healthier food choices in restaurants may help reduce the prevalence of obesity.

Obesity in Arizona

• In 2006, 59.6 % of Arizona’s population was overweight and/or obese.– Source: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2006

• From 1976-2004, the percentage of overweight children under age 11 years has more than doubled. For adolescents ages 12-19 years, the percentage has more than tripled.– Source: NHANES 1971-1974, 1976-1980, 1988-1994, 2003-2004

Arizona Smart Choice Program• Nutrition guidelines adapted from the Colorado

Physical Activity and Nutrition Program (COPAN)• Marketing materials developed

– Fact Sheet

– Implementation Guide

– Brochure

– Window Decals and Menu Stickers

– Website: www.azsmartchoice.com

Nutritional Requirements

Meal Side Dish Minimum of two servings of beans, whole grains, fruits, or vegetables

Minimum of one serving of beans, whole grains, fruits, or vegetables

No more than 700 calories No more than 300 calories No more than 30% total fat No more than 30% total fat No more than 15% of total calories from saturated fat

No more than 15% of total calories from saturated fat

No more than 0.5 grams of trans fat (no added or artificial trans fat)

No more than 0.5 grams of trans fat (no added or artificial trans fat)

No more than 1,500 milligrams of sodium No more than 650 milligrams of sodium *Source: Adapted from the Colorado Physical Activity and Nutrition Program

Participation

• Only cost to restaurants is for recipe analysis.

• Once recipe is analyzed and meets criteria, restaurant is enrolled by ADHS/NuPA.

• Restaurant receives logo file, brochures and holders, two window decals and menu stickers.

Benefits for Restaurants

• Increased business awareness and revenue

• Statewide recognition

• Placement on website list

• Certificate of appreciation of restaurant’s commitment to healthy eating

Launch of Program

• Launch of Program is planned to coincide with National Nutrition Month.

• A tentative date has been set for the Press Event to

officially launch the Program.

What Can We All Do To Support the Arizona Smart Choice Program?

• Educate clients/partners on why it is important to choose healthy meals when eating out.

• Encourage clients/partners to look for the Arizona Smart Choice logo at restaurants in the coming months.

What Can We All Do To Promote the Arizona Smart Choice Program?