• The New York Times, Monday, February 18, 2008 12:15 PM

Dr. David B. Allison, the incoming president of a leading organization of obesity scientists, says that new rules requiring many New York City restaurants to post calorie information could backfire--whether by adding to the forbidden-fruit allure of high-calorie foods or by sending patrons away hungry enough that they will later gorge themselves.

Most nutritionists support the theory of the city's health commissioner that forcing chain restaurants to list the calories alongside menu items will make patrons think twice about ordering calorie-laden food. The debate might be limited to nutrition experts, except for the fact that Allison was paid to submit an affidavit to a federal court on behalf of the New York State Restaurant Association, which is suing to block the new rules.

Allison's filing has angered some members of the Obesity Society, setting off an e-mail fury. Some have pointed to his other industry ties, which have included advisory roles for Coca-Cola, Kraft Foods and Frito-Lay. Allison says he does not take a position for or against menu labeling, but merely presents evidence that the labeling might deter over-eating but might not--and, in fact, might be harmful.

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