Bill > S1939

This bill requires "chain restaurants," defined as restaurants with 20 or more locations operating under the same name and offering similar menus, to meet specific nutritional standards for their "children's meals," which are food combinations primarily intended for children sold at a single price. The bill aims to combat rising childhood obesity rates, which have significant economic and health consequences, by limiting children's meals to a maximum of 550 calories, 700 milligrams of sodium, 15 grams of added sugar, 10% of calories from saturated fat, and 0 grams of trans fat, while also mandating at least half a cup of fruits or vegetables and a whole grain, lean protein, or low-fat dairy option. Beverages served with these meals must be water, unsweetened milk or milk alternatives, or 100% fruit or vegetable juice (or a combination with water) in a limited serving size, and restaurants must display nutritional information for these meals on their menus or menu boards, with exemptions for those posting information online. Enforcement will be carried out by health departments, with penalties escalating from a warning for a first offense to civil fines for subsequent violations, and the Department of Health will be responsible for providing educational materials to affected restaurants.

Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S1939