July 23/Oak Brook, Ill./PRNewswire -- McDonald's USA is introducing "Favorites Under 400 Calories" -- a new menu platform featuring existing popular food and beverage choices at counters and drive-thrus nationwide. Select items from the new menu are also spotlighted in McDonald's "Win When USA Wins Gold" promotion which brings customers the fun of the London 2012 Olympic Games through a unique online experience.

"Favorites Under 400 Calories is one more way we're making nutrition information accessible. Like our mobile app, this platform aims to empower our customers and employees to make choices that are right for their nutrition needs," said Neil Golden, chief marketing officer, McDonald's USA. "We've found that customers are surprised to learn about the calorie content of some of their favorite menu options at McDonald's. In fact, customers may be surprised to know that about 80% of national menu choices are under 400 calories for the standard recipe."

Recent research suggests only about one in seven Americans (15%) accurately estimates the number of calories they need to maintain their weight. In addition to listing calories, various promotional materials highlight the average adult needs about 2,000 calories a day, although individual calorie needs vary.

"McDonald's is bringing greater awareness to calories starting with some of customers' favorite menu items for under 400 calories," said Cindy Goody, PhD, MBA, RD, McDonald's USA senior director of nutrition. "With Favorites Under 400 Calories, we hope to help customers understand how their choices fit within their daily recommended calorie needs, particularly with portion sizing and eating in moderation."

Customers can access McDonald's nutrition information for food and beverage choices on www.mcdonalds.com , McDonald's mobile app, toll-free customer experience and insights line, in-restaurant brochures, reverse side of tray liners and select menu packaging. They can also use the online tool My Meal Builder to mix and match food and beverage choices and view nutrition and ingredient information for customized menu choices.