WASHINGTON — The Food and Drug Administration is seeking comments, data and other information that may help the agency implement a new federal law that requires the posting of calorie content and other nutrition information on menu items at certain chain restaurants and similar retail food operations and vending machines, according to a July 7 notice in the Federal Register.

“The availability of nutritional information through menu labeling would provide Americans the opportunity to exercise personal responsibility and make informed choices about their diets,” the F.D.A. said. “Studies show that providing nutrition information at restaurants can help people make healthier choices. Responding to this demand for information, several states and localities have initiated legislative or regulatory efforts on restaurant menu labeling, creating a patchwork of ideas and logistical challenges for many restaurant chains.”

The F.D.A. has set a Sept. 7 deadline for electronic or written comments, which may be submitted through www.regulations.gov.