McDonald’s Revamps Happy Meal with Nutritious Options

 

McDonald’s announced Thursday major changes coming to its iconic Happy Meal, according to USA Today. The change comes after years of criticism towards the chain’s less healthy options aimed at children.

Death of an Icon

The most notable change is the removal of the cheeseburger. The iconic Happy Meal entrée will now only be available by request. Remaining options will be a hamburger or Chicken McNuggets.

The company also announced a plan to promote fresh fruits and vegetables as a side. As well as reducing portion sizes of fries, McDonald’s will continue to serve apple slices and “Cuties” clementines instead.

McDonald’s has already stopped including soda with Happy Meals. Soon, bottled water will be the main drink option. They also announced plans to remake their chocolate milk with less added sugar content.

Commitment to Nutrition Standards

According to NPR, these new standards are designed to cut meals to fewer than 600 calories. No more than 10% of calories will come from saturated fat or added sugar. They also plan to reduce sodium to fewer than 650mg.

McDonald’s says these changes will take place in half of their locations in 120 countries by the end of 2022. Changes in the U.S. are to be completed by June 2018.

Nancy Hart, CEO of the American Heart Association, said “This is an important step in the right direction and we look forward to seeing how today’s announcement will lead to kids eating fewer calories and less sugar.”