THE Government has received mixed reviews over new calorie labelling rules come into force.

The new legislation applies to large businesses such as takeaways, restaurants and cafes came into force on April 6.

The changes – which were approved by Parliament in 2021 – mean it is now a legal requirement for large businesses with more than 250 employees, including cafes, restaurants and takeaways, to display calorie information of non-prepacked food and soft drinks.

Public Health Minister Maggie Throup said: "It is crucial that we all have access to the information we need to maintain a healthier weight, and this starts with knowing how calorific our food is.

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"We are used to knowing this when we are shopping in the supermarket, but this isn’t the case when we eat out or get a takeaway."

Since the new law came into force, the Government has received praise and indeed criticism for the new policy.

We asked our readers if they want to know how many calories are in their meal before they order.

Tina Maria Susan Jackson said: "No, I go out to enjoy a meal and company. Not to calorie count."

Karen Moore said: "A lot of places do it already, and can help you make a choice. Up to you then."

Donna Gelling said: "More to life than worrying about calories,life's for living we never know how long were here for."

Helen Louise Armes said: "I'm interested when there is a calorie count but not bothered either way."

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Claire Purcell said: "Yes of course."

Edinete Marshall said: "No I'm not worry about little things like that."

Keith Simpson said: "The more the merrier."

Stacey Woodburn said: "If I was bothered about the calories I wouldn't order it in the first place."

Helen Edmondson said: "No because people who have a problem with there weight will stop them from eating plus you go out to enjoy your meal and not feel guilty for eating."

Jeff Briggs said: "Only people that neglect their health wouldn't be interested in knowing the calorie content of their meals.

"I'd like to be able to make informed decisions."