Heart&Stroke Health Check^TM Program

The Health Check program is based on criteria developed by the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s registered dietitians. Using Canada’s Food Guide, the Foundation’s dietitians created nutrient criteria with the goal of improving the overall health and wellness of Canadians. As a pro-active program, Health Check’s nutrient criteria has evolved, taking into consideration developments in health science, nutrition trends and the eating habits of Canadians.

Restaurant Criteria and Implementation

Each menu item is reviewed by the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s registered dietitians to ensure the food meets all Health Check nutrient criteria.

Changes to Nutrient Criteria

Changes to the Health Check nutrient criteria were recently announced. The criteria changes for all existing Health Check menu items must take effect by the dates identified or forfeit participation in the Health Check program. The Heart and Stroke Foundation encourages all existing licensees to implement the menu item reformulations as soon as possible. All new menu items entering the program must reflect the new criteria immediately.

 In addition restaurants must:

• Create standards and procedures for food preparation.
• Agree to random testing of their Health Check menu items.
• Include a brief message on the menu that explains why the items are part of a healthy diet.
• Make available nutrition facts information for each Health Check menu item.

Each menu item is reviewed by the team of Heart and Stroke Foundation registered dietitians to ensure the food meets all nutrient criteria. Only then will it be identified with the Health Check symbol.

Our dietitians will work with companies to provide suggestions on recipe reformulations for a menu to meet the criteria. Materials are provided to restaurants in the Health Check program to assist with staff training. Health Check helps you every step of the way!