California-based Healthy Dining has announced the launch of the expanded and redesigned HealthyDiningFinder.com Web site and online resource.

New features on the site, which helps consumers find healthful menu items at 60,000 restaurant locations nationwide, include easier navigation, expanded nutrition information, enhanced functionality and new components, including a blog.

‘HealthyDiningFinder.com makes it easier than ever for consumers to find restaurants that offer healthier choices,’ explained Healthy Dining’s President, Anita Jones-Mueller, MPH. ‘Even in this tough economy, restaurants that jump on this important consumer trend can gain new customers and secure a competitive edge.’

According to National Restaurant Association research, health and nutrition are among the hottest trends in restaurants this year. In a recent survey of more than 1,600 professional chefs (members of the American Culinary Federation), nutrition/health as a culinary theme ranked No. 11 of hottest trends on restaurant menus in 2009.

In addition, the Association’s research shows that three in four adults say they are trying to eat more healthfully in restaurants now than they did two years ago. And, nearly three in 10 adults (27 percent) have gone online to search for nutrition information about restaurant food, up from 24 percent just a year ago.

HealthyDiningFinder.com features dietitian-approved Healthy Dining menu items served at 60,000 restaurant locations, representing the industry’s largest-ever nutrition initiative to help Americans identify healthier choices when dining out.

Restaurants featured on the site range from quickservice to fine dining. The options are approved by registered dietitians and meet nutrition criteria based on the recommendations of leading health organizations. Detailed nutrition information (calories, fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium, protein, carbohydrates, fiber and fruit/vegetable servings) is provided for each qualifying menu item.