A recent analysis conducted by PlushCare highlighted the unhealthiest cheeseburgers, fast-food fries, chicken nuggets, vanilla shakes, and chicken sandwiches from popular fast-food chains. The research was conducted by examining the nutritional content of each item, including calories, sugar, saturated fat, and sodium levels. The Department of Health’s nutrient profiling method was used to score the relative unhealthiness of each item, resulting in a list of the most unhealthy fast-food options available.
Five Guys topped the list as the fast-food chain with the most unhealthy cheeseburger, with its Cheeseburger scoring 50 unhealthiness points due to its high calorie, fat, and sodium content. Following closely behind were Whataburger and Smash Burger with a score of 42 each, while Carl’s Jr. came in fourth with 37 unhealthiness points. Interestingly, Culver’s was found to be the least unhealthy cheeseburger option with a score of 17, surprising many who expected big-name chains like McDonald’s and Burger King to be at the bottom of the list.
In addition to analyzing cheeseburgers, the study also looked at the unhealthy fast-food fries available. Five Guys was once again found to have the most unhealthy fries, followed by Steak ‘n Shake. Surprisingly, McDonald’s fries were ranked towards the bottom of the unhealthy list, with In-N-Out fries being the least unhealthy option. The research also delved into the nutritional content of fast-food chicken nuggets, with Popeye’s coming in at the top as the most unhealthy option, followed by Arby’s and Shake Shack.
When it came to vanilla shakes, Fatburger emerged as the chain with the most unhealthy vanilla shake, followed closely by Sonic. McDonald’s was found to have the least unhealthy vanilla shake, showing that even popular chains have relatively healthier options available. Finally, the study also examined the nutritional content of fast-food chicken sandwiches, with Popeye’s once again claiming the top spot as the most unhealthy option, leading to McDonald’s being the least unhealthy choice on this list.
Overall, these findings provide valuable insights for consumers looking to make healthier choices when dining at fast-food chains. While some chains may have some notoriously unhealthy options, there are also better alternatives available. By being aware of the nutritional content of popular fast-food items, individuals can make more informed decisions when it comes to their food choices and overall health. McDonald’s lovers can take comfort in the fact that there are worse options out there, allowing them to indulge in their favorites while still maintaining a balanced diet.
