Should "Happy Meals" Aimed at Kids Be Banned to Help Curb Childhood Obesity?

[Obama 2012 1,714]

When was the last time you actually ate McDonalds? They don't display the nutritional info on the packages. Yes, I do realize that it's not just McDonalds, that was just an example. The point I'm making is that if you see this as some sort of government infringement upon your rights, it might be time to put your tinfoil hat back on.

Ummm, actually they do... At least here in Texas they have for the past few years...

[Jenn! 918]

At the end of the day, yes. Unless you are going to socialize the task of raising kids, parents ultimately bear the responsibility of making sure their kids are brought up right and are afforded a good start into their lives. If we let go of that principle, then what's next on the list? Monthly weigh-ins for kids and diet boot camps for those that pack a few pounds too much?

I agree it sounds extreme. However, how can we offer government subsidized health care and at the same time not apply government restrictions to incentivize good health? If we want people to have full liberty when it comes to the choices they make that might impact their health, than we also have to give them 100% accountability when it comes to financing the consequences.

[chri'stina 190]

When was the last time you actually ate McDonalds? They don't display the nutritional info on the packages. Yes, I do realize that it's not just McDonalds, that was just an example. The point I'm making is that if you see this as some sort of government infringement upon your rights, it might be time to put your tinfoil hat back on.

Yes they do, I just wrote a few posts ago that I go there every once in awhile. And on the fries packages, and the burger wrapper all the nutrition info is written.

[chri'stina 190]

This is how the nutrition info looks:

[The_Dude 1,142]

They don't have that here. None the less, do you really think that anyone who would be considered a regular customer even reads that?

[Obama 2012 1,714]

They don't have that here. None the less, do you really think that anyone who would be considered a regular customer even reads that?

wait, and you're in Cali? Land of 10,000,000,000 regulations?!?!?!?!?!

[Amby 490]

I don't think banning toys is the right answer. Parents buy fast food because it's convenient, not because their kids want a toy.

[chri'stina 190]

They don't have that here. None the less, do you really think that anyone who would be considered a regular customer even reads that?

I have no idea, but I happened to see it and read it. It's not tiny on the packaging.

[Amby 490]

I just found this on McDonald's site..."simple steps to cut calories" http://www.mcdonalds.com/content/dam/McDonalds/Documents/McDonalds_SimpleStepsToCutCalories.pdf

[Obama 2012 1,714]

I have no idea, but I happened to see it and read it. It's not tiny on the packaging.

take up most of the back packaging on fries.... and is on the side of the nuggets.

I don't see McDonalds sales going down either

[DEDixon 39]

nanny state, san francisco is famous for it. they'll eventually outlaw driving while licking an ice cream cone.

thought liberals were all about "freedom?" mfers!

[Obama 2012 1,714]

nanny state, san francisco is famous for it. they'll eventually outlaw driving while licking an ice cream cone.

thought liberals were all about "freedom?" mfers!

It's ok to be queeer, but your dead if you kill and eat a deer.

[Mr. Big Dog 10,747]

I agree it sounds extreme. However, how can we offer government subsidized health care and at the same time not apply government restrictions to incentivize good health? If we want people to have full liberty when it comes to the choices they make that might impact their health, than we also have to give them 100% accountability when it comes to financing the consequences.

Simple. My employer (as well as many others) does that today; as a participant in the group health insurance, you have the opportunity to save on your health insurance premiums by utilizing active health management tools. You don't have to but then you forfeit a credit towards your premiums. I think it's an excellent incentive for people to take care of their health better. And those who don't will end up paying more. Done.

[Jenn! 918]

Simple. My employer (as well as many others) does that today; as a participant in the group health insurance, you have the opportunity to save on your health insurance premiums by utilizing active health management tools. You don't have to but then you forfeit a credit towards your premiums. I think it's an excellent incentive for people to take care of their health better. And those who don't will end up paying more. Done.

What about people on medicaid who aren't paying any premiums - where is their incentive?

[Obama 2012 1,714]

What about people on medicaid who aren't paying any premiums - where is their incentive?

If you're on medicaid, you shouldn't be buying/have the capabilities to buy fast food/junk food. Food stamp card item restrictions fix that real quick.