Disney in a Minute: What is a Disney Check?

We’re here with a series of quick posts, “Disney in a Minute,” bite-sized nuggets of information that can better help you understand a Disney term or planning topic. Enjoy!

What is a Disney Check?

The Disney Check is a designation that Disney gives to kids meals served in the parks and on Disney Cruise Line that meet healthful nutritional guidelines. Note: Prior to 2018, this program was called “Mickey Check.”

On restaurant menus, both table service and quick service, look for a colorful Mickey head symbol with a check mark in it. These marks indicate that a team of nutritionists has evaluated that meal or menu item for adherence to calorie limits; percentages of sugar, sodium, and fat; and recommended amounts of vitamins and other nutrients. For example, full Disney check meals are limited to 600 calories, there must be less than 740 mg of sodium per meal, and less than 1.1 grams of saturated fat per 100 calories of food. The complete program parameters may be found in a dedicated PDF.

While your and your child are likely to splurge a bit while you’re on vacation, the Disney check can be a good tool to help families manage the never-ending onslaught of temptations. Perhaps in advance of your trip, show your child the Disney check symbol and tell them that they may only order restaurant meals with the Mickey next to them.

The Disney check can also be a tool to help nutrition-conscious adults manage their food intake. (There’s no rule that the Disney check meals must be ordered by children.) While these meals may not be as exciting as some adult food offerings, three Disney check offerings per day equal the approximate calorie requirement for many adult women.