Despite having a reputation for serving food that's not the most nutritious, some fast food restaurants are making greater efforts to incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into their menus. This comes amid a growing consciousness among consumers and about the nutritional value of the food they consume.
McDonald's, one of the most known fast food restaurants with a global footprint, has made an effort in recent years to offer more fresh produce to its customers. Three years ago, they committed to offer improved nutritional choices, which included commitments to incorporate more produce across its worldwide menus.
“McDonald's is committed to incorporating more fruits and vegetables across our menu,” said Terri Hickey, U.S. media relations manager for McDonald's. “We believe we have an opportunity to make an impact on nutrition by providing access to fruits and vegetables through expanded choices.” Meaning, offering more produce on the menu as well as incorporating fresh produce into menu items. An example of the former is automatically including apple slices in Happy Meals, which McDonald's did two years ago, and an example of the latter is the presence of three-quarters of a cup of fresh vegetables in their McWraps.
Critics may counter that, despite more fresh produce on the menus, fast food restaurants like McDonald's have menus dominated by items that are not as nutritious as fruits and vegetables. But Hickey pointed out that, while most people still come to McDonald's for the burgers, more nutritious options on the menu give people options to eat healthier.
“Our menu has evolved over the years, just as our customers have,” said Hickey. “We recognize that many of our guests still enjoy their classic favourites, like the Big Mac, which is why we're committed to offering choice and variety across our menu to help meet the needs of our customers.”