According to a new study in the Journal Of Preventive Medicine titled “Calorie and Nutrient Profile of Combination Meals at U.S. Fast Food and Fast Casual Restaurants,” fast food is fine to eat as long as you leave out the sauces, toppings, and soft drinks.
After collecting nutritional data from 34 takeaway chains, researchers found the typical meal contained 1193 calories with saturated fat, sodium, and sugar levels well above recommended daily intake.
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However, lead author Kelsey A. Vercammen from Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health told Reuters Health that if you replace or leave out dressings, sides and soft drinks, the nutritional value of the meal is far healthier. So...water, bun and meat patties.
“We were surprised at just how much realistic customer modifications can change the nutrient profile of a meal,” Vercammen said. Researchers also note that going all out on the sides and sauces could add an extra 500 calories to a typical meal deal.
But what's the point of a big mac meal without the big mac sauce?
