Starting today, restaurants across New York City will be required to put warning labels on menu items that contain high levels of sodium.

The city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has implemented a measure that will require the warning labels on dishes that contain sodium levels topping the recommended daily limit of 2,300 milligrams, which roughly equates to a teaspoon of salt.

The Health Department says the warning will apply to an estimated 10 percent of menu items from chains with at least 15 franchises nationwide. Those chains account for about one-third of the city's restaurant business, according to officials.

Chain restaurants will receive a grace period to comply with the new regulations. The Health Department won't fine those eateries $200 until March 1.