Fast Food Facts: Calories and Sugar

Andrea Sun, Avery Nork, Jenny Niwa, National Center for Health Research

Fast Food Facts (download pdf)

Let’s face it:  With so much to do, it’s hard to eat right. And even though you know that fast food tends to be more fattening and less healthy, you fast food chains are convenient and avoiding them may not be the most realistic.

However, there is good news. The FDA implemented the new menu labeling rule in 2018 after facing delays and challenges since it was finalized in December 2014 [1].

As a result, chain restaurants with 2 or more locations under the same name have to provide accurate information about calories and other nutritional information. Many changed their ingredients or made portions smaller to reduce calories. Customers can now consume fewer calories without dramatically changing their eating habits [2]. Consumers now are empowered to make more informed choices about their food and it is easier to choose healthier eating habits.

How Many Calories Should I be Consuming a Day?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has recommended dietary guidelines that include the number of calories you should consume a day, depending on your age, level of activity, and whether you are a man or woman.[3] The chart below will help you find out how many calories you should be getting.[3] If you regularly consume more than the recommended amount, you will probably gain weight.

Recommended Daily Calorie Intake by Gender and Age Based on Activity Level

Source: HHS/USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005 [3]

Sedentary means a lifestyle that includes only the light physical activity associated with typical day-to-day life. Moderately active means physical activity equal to walking about 1.5 to 3 miles per day at 3 to 4 miles per hour, in addition to the light physical activity typical of day-to-day life. Active means physical activity equal to walking more than 3 miles per day at 3 to 4 miles per hour, in addition to the light physical activity typical of day-to-day life. The calorie ranges are different for different age groups. For children and adolescents, more calories are needed at older ages. For adults, fewer calories are needed at older ages. [3] The National Center for Health Research wants to give you examples of menu choices offered by some of the most popular fast food chains. Take a look — you may be surprised!

Fast Foods by Category:

Where to Find This Information?

Don’t fall for the “health halo” effect by assuming that all foods at restaurants marketed as “healthy” or salads and other foods you assume are healthy are actually better for you. Several fast food chains and restaurants have their nutrition information on their websites. If your favorite foods are not listed above, go to the chain’s website and look for the calorie information. You may be shocked…or pleasantly surprised! Remember: knowledge is power. Knowing how many calories are in your favorite snack or meal-on-the-go can help you watch your weight and stay healthy.

All articles are reviewed and approved by Dr. Diana Zuckerman and other senior staff.

References:

1. Federal Register. Food Labeling; Nutrition Labeling of Standard Menu Items in Restaurants and Similar Retail Food Establishments. National Archives. 2014. Access from https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2014/12/01/2014-27833/food-labeling-nutrition-labeling-of-standard-menu-items-in-restaurants-and-similar-retail-food

2. Evich, Helena. Obama’s calorie rule kicks in thanks to Trump. Politico. 2018. Access from https://www.politico.com/story/2018/05/07/fdacalories-food-labels-obama-trump-517191

3. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025. Access from https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2020-12/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans_2020-2025.pdf

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