Calories on menus: which cafes in England must show them

If you have noticed calorie counts next to dishes on a cafe or restaurant menu in England, that is the law, not the venue's choice. The rule on calorie labelling in the out-of-home sector (cafes, restaurants and takeaways) has applied in England since 6 April 2022. It helps customers see how much energy a meal contains before they order.

Which businesses must show calories?

The law applies only to large businesses — those with more than 250 employees. That covers chain cafes, restaurants, pubs, supermarkets selling ready-to-eat food, delivery services and third-party apps. Small independent venues below that staff number are not caught by the law and do not have to show calories, though they may choose to.

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What must appear on the menu?

Next to each non-prepacked food item and soft drink, the calorie count in kcal must be shown. The figure has to be visible at the point of choice: on printed menus, online menus, delivery apps and labels at the counter. Alongside it, the law requires a reminder of an adult's recommended daily calorie intake, so the number has context.

What is exempt?

There are exceptions. Calories do not have to be shown for items on the menu for 30 days a year or less (such as seasonal or one-off dishes), or for any alcoholic drink above 1.2% ABV. So a glass of wine or a pint may not list calories, while a latte or a burger must.

Why does it matter to customers?

The aim of the rule is to help people make informed choices and to support efforts against obesity and related illness. When calories sit next to the price, it is easier to compare two dishes or to notice that a familiar drink carries more energy than you thought. The law does not restrict anyone's choice: it simply provides a number, and the decision stays with the customer. If you watch what you eat for medical reasons, remember that the figure shown is a guide, and you can always ask staff about a dish's exact ingredients.

Who enforces it and what are the penalties?

Local authorities enforce the rules. If a venue fails to show calories, the council first issues an improvement notice. Ignoring that notice is an offence carrying a fine of up to £2,500. Note that the rule applies only in England; Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland do not yet have the same mandatory requirement, so menus outside England may not show calories.

Always check the current detail on gov.uk and the Food Standards Agency website, where the official menu requirements are published.