LOS ANGELES — Nineteen U.S. restaurant chains, including Burger King and DineEquity’s IHOP, are backing an industry effort to serve and promote healthier meals for children.

The announcement on Wednesday from the National Restaurant Association (NRA) comes as public health officials and consumer advocates pressure restaurants to reduce calories in, and improve the nutritional value of, meals for U.S. children — nearly one in three of whom are either obese or overweight.

The 19 chains collectively operate some 15,000 restaurants that will participate in the trade group’s ‘Kids LiveWell’ initiative, it said.

Other participating brands include Au Bon Pain, Brinker International’s (EAT.N) Chili’s Grill & Bar, Cracker Barrel (CBRL.O), Denny’s (DENN.O), El Pollo Loco, Outback Steakhouse OSI [OSI.UL] and Sizzler.

The NRA said the voluntary program would focus on increasing consumption of fruit and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains and low-fat dairy, while limiting unhealthy fats, sugars and sodium.

Participants agreed to offer a children’s meal — comprising an entree, a side and a drink — with 600 calories or less that meets the above criteria.

They also promise to offer at least one other individual item with 200 calories or less.

‘This is a great start to help empower consumers — kids and parents especially […]