More and more consumers, me included, are paying attention to the nutrition labels on the foods we buy at the grocery store.

But the appetite for this information doesn't and shouldn't end there.

People are clamouring for the same information when they're eating out.

Recognizing that demand, the province rolled out a new "informed dining" program last week in about 300 restaurants across the province.

I know the program is voluntary, but I'm convinced more restaurants will jump on board, if not out of desire, then out of need driven by customer expectation and demand. This is one of those ideas I expect will take off.

What I found interesting in the province's notice was the statement that British Columbians eat one in 10 meals at a restaurant or "food service" establishment. Wow to the numbers, how can they afford that.

And what do they mean by "food service establishment" exactly? I'm picturing everything from the mobile lunch trucks, and vending machines to so-called cafeterias and food courts.

Anyway, I digress (typical of me). Maybe I should be paying closer attention to the "fat line" in those nutitional fact box. Specifically, I should be looking for the good fats, more specifically Omega 3, which might help clear my thinking. Thank goodness restaurants are going to be making this information easier for me to acquire.

I'm convinced this new "informed dining" program will help people make the healthier choice the easy choice - and easier is better in today's fast-paced culture.

Calorie and sodium information will be prominently highlighted for all regular menu items, along with information on daily calorie and sodium needs, to help consumers understand the information.

To coincide with the launch of the program, an awareness campaign began last week, showcasing the participating restaurants and encouraging British Columbians to look for the "informed dining" logo.

I'm anxious to hear from you, the readers, about what Langley restaurants step up and take part in this new, health-conscious undertaking.

MORE ON THE HEALTH FRONT

Don't get me wrong. All this talk about health and stuff doesn't mean I'm becoming health conscious - although I know I should.

I admit I have been walking more, using my four-legged friends as my excuse to walk at least four or five times a week.

I know I need to do more to improve my health, Bbt that's fodder for a future column - maybe. For now, I digress again - pass the fish oil.

There's more on the health and business front, that I think you might or should be aware of.

London Drugs is offering healthy heart clinics this month, but it's not free. It costs $15 per person complete with a load of pamphlets and information.

Heart disease continues to be one of the leading causes of death in Canadians. A Statistics Canada report on morality, released last October, identifies heart disease and stroke as two of the three leading causes of death in Canada.

The report also recognizes women over 40 - that includes me (but keep that a secret, 'kay?) as being a demographic that needs to be particularly careful of developing heart disease, especially if factors such as smoking, being overweight, being inactive, having high stress, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure, are part of their lives.

For those wondering about the condition of their heart and the possibility of developing heart disease, you might want to attend one of these 45-minute clinics.

Clinics are be held across Western Canada this month, but the drug store's press paraphernalia tells me the next session in Langley's store is set for Thursday, May 31, between 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

I really have no excuse, since it's so strategically located across the street from our offices, and it's not being offered on a deadline day. It couldn't hurt, that's for sure. Maybe I'll see you there.

A CHANCE TO SAY THANK YOU

Off the subject of health for just a moment, I want to remind you that the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce is again seeking nominations for its annual business excellence awards.

These awards recognize companies and business people who demonstrate outstanding contributions to the community, customer service, innovation, growth, and ethics. To find out more about the nomination process, visit www.langleychamber.com. The deadline is June 29, with awards presented in October.

rhooper@langleyadvance.com