Applebee's sued over calorie count

WICHITA, Kan., Sept. 28 (UPI) -- A class-action lawsuit contends Applebee's restaurants underestimate the fat and calories for the Weight Watchers-endorsed meals they serve.

An analysis by independent Analytical Labs of Boise, Idaho, revealed Applebee's meals for the diet-conscious contain more calories and fat than indicated on their menus, alleges the $5 million lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court in Kansas where Applebee's has its headquarters.

"They found in no uncertain terms that it wasn't even close," said lawyer August Matteis, who brought the suit.

For example, Applebee's says its Cajun Lime Tilapia has 6 grams of fat and 310 calories, while Analytical Labs allegedly found 14.3 grams of fat and 401 calories, the New York Post reported.

Weight Watchers has declined to comment, while Applebee's said it warns customers that a difference between the nutritional information on the menu and what is in the food "is inevitable," reported the Washington Business Journal.