VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – It’s supposed to help you make informed choices when you order a meal, but there doesn’t seem to be a lot of “buy in” for BC’s Informed Dining program.

In fact, only 300 of the province’s 12,000 restaurants are taking part.

These are mainly big chains like A&W, Little Caesars, the Boathouse, and De Dutch, since the year-old program is purely voluntary.

The Consumers Association of Canada finds that disappointing, especially in an age when more people are trying to make better nutritional choices.

“We’re all at the stage where now we’re watching what we’re eating and this information is very important to consumers. In the end, if they can’t do it, I’m sure it will be mandated,” says Association President Bruce Cran.

He feels the provincial government should give the program more teeth.

“If the program can’t be put into existence as it stands on a very solid voluntary basis, the government should mandate it, yes,” Cran adds.

The Ministry of Health admits the program isn’t perfect and can only improve with time, but Cran says statements like that won’t do much to reassure restaurants that are already taking part.

He feels eateries would do well to join up as such transparency can be a powerful marketing tool, but, if they won’t, it may be time to make them.