Chick-fil-A is the latest restaurant to get on board providing parents healthier choices when dining out. On Jan. 9, the popular chain debuted what it calls, “one of the most nutritious kid’s meals in America,” which features grilled nuggets as an entrée option for children and Buddy Fruits Pure Blended to Go applesauce to complement other healthy alternatives such as the popular fruit cup.
In addition, Chick-fil-A is offering improved beverage options to only one percent milk and 100 percent apple juice to go along with its signature freshly squeezed lemonade.
“The reality is that we live in an on-the-go world where parents have limited healthy meal options for their kids on the way to and from recreational activities, school or other events,” said Woody Faulk, Chick-fil-A’s vice president of brand strategy and design, who oversees Chick-fil-A’s menu. “Our new Kid’s Meal reflects our commitment to helping parents strike a balance between nutrition, convenience and price. We want parents to know that they do have a choice at Chick-fil-A.”
Chick-fil-A isn’t the only fast food chain offering healthier choices for children. In July 2011, 19 restaurants jumped on board as part of a new initiative launched by the National Restaurant Association. The participating chain restaurants included Burger King, Chili’s, and IHOP. The more than 15,000 restaurants that participate in the program offer at least one meal combination that totals 600 calories or less, including a side dish of 200 calories or less. The types of food offered also follow the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s food guidelines. The offerings include more fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.
Valerie Greene, mother of 12, 9 and 6-year-olds welcomes the variety of healthier selections. As a full-time nurse at a rehabilitation center, Greene said while she prefers to serve her family home cooked meals, at times fast food is her only option on busy days.
“It’s nice to go to a Chick-fil-A or a McDonald’s and be able to order fruit for your children instead of French fries,” she said. “You used to have to search for a restaurant or fast food chain that offered healthier food but now you don’t, and that’s really nice.”
Healthy fast food for children
– Subway roast beef sandwich on wheat bread with apple slices.
– KFC grilled chicken drumstick with green beans or corn on the cob.
– McDonald’s four piece chicken nuggets with apple slices.
– Chick-fil-A four piece grilled chicken nuggets with Buddy Fruits Pure Blended Fruit to Go apple sauce or fruit cup
