The statistics are quite staggering — in the United States, nearly one-third of children are considered overweight or obese. This coupled with the fact that Americans are spending more than half of their food budget on fast-food makes for a strong case toward healthy menu options for children.
In light of first lady, Michelle Obama’s anti-obseity initiative, Darden Restaurants (whose popular chains include LongHorn Steakhouse, Red Lobster and Olive Garden) has restructured it’s kid’s menus. Children’s food choices will no longer offer fries and sodas, but instead more healthful offerings like fruits, vegetables and low-fat milk.
The cutting-back on foods high in sodium, fat and calories extends also to other famous restaurants. Some big chain such as Chili’s, Denny’s and Burger King participate in a program called Kids LiveWell where they list menu items that meet healthier criteria.
Menu scrutiny is not limited only to kids’ meals — by next year, federal law requires chains to list each dish’s calorie count.
If you feel your restaurant menu needs a healthy makeover, please contact Synergy.