Introduction

Healthy Fast Food Chains: Discover the top healthy fast food chains for 2026. Get expert tips on ordering low-calorie, high-protein, vegan, and keto-friendly meals on the go. Finding a quick, affordable, and genuinely nutritious meal can feel like a challenge. The convenience of fast food often seems at odds with healthy eating goals. However, the landscape of quick-service dining is undergoing a significant transformation.

As consumer demand for transparency, quality ingredients, and wholesome options grows, a new generation of fast-casual and reformed fast food chains is stepping up. These establishments prove that you don’t have to sacrifice your well-being for a speedy meal.

This comprehensive guide serves as your roadmap for navigating the best healthy fast food chains in 2026. We’ve gone beyond marketing claims to analyse menus, scrutinise nutritional information, and evaluate ingredient quality. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent on the go, a fitness enthusiast tracking macros, or simply someone looking to make better choices, this list will help you eat well without slowing down. We’ll explore top national brands, uncover regional gems, and provide actionable tips to help you make the healthiest choice every time you order.

How We Evaluated the Top Chains

Our ranking process is built on a foundation of clear, health-focused criteria. To earn a spot on our list, a chain had to demonstrate a strong commitment to more than just a single “healthy” menu item. We looked for a holistic approach to wellness.

• Nutritional Profile: We prioritised chains offering balanced meals rich in lean protein, fibre, and healthy fats while keeping calories, saturated fat, and sodium in check. (For more details on daily recommendations, you can consult the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans.)
• Ingredient Quality and Sourcing: Fresh, whole ingredients are non-negotiable. We favoured brands that use antibiotic-free meats, organic produce where possible, and non-GMO ingredients. Transparency in sourcing practices was a major plus.
• Menu Customisation: The ability to build your own meal is a game-changer. Chains that allow you to add or subtract ingredients to fit your dietary needs easily—be it low-carb, high-protein, or plant-based—scored high.
• Dietary Accommodation: We assessed the breadth and safety of options for various dietary patterns, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and keto.
• Transparency: Easily accessible and understandable nutrition and allergen information is crucial. Brands that offer interactive online calculators and clearly marked menus were preferred.
• Value and Accessibility: Healthy food should be accessible. We considered price point and the number of locations to ensure our recommendations are practical for a wide audience.

Top 15 Healthiest Fast Food Chains for 2026

Here is our definitive list of the chains leading the charge in nutritious, convenient dining for 2026.

Summary of Top Picks

• Best Overall: Sweetgreen
• Best Mediterranean: CAVA
• Best for Families: Panera Bread
• Best High-Protein: Chipotle Mexican Grill
• Best Vegan Options: The Veggie Grill
• Best Budget-Friendly: Subway
• Best Breakfast: Smoothie King

1. Sweetgreen

• Overview: The undisputed champion of the salad-centric fast-casual world, Sweetgreen has built its reputation on farm-to-table sourcing and chef-crafted seasonal menus. Its commitment to transparency, sustainability, and delicious, complex flavour combinations makes it a top choice.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Kale Caesar: A lighter, more nutritious take on a classic. Opt for light dressing.
  • Harvest Bowl: A fan favourite with roasted chicken, sweet potatoes, apples, and almonds over a bed of kale.
  • Build-Your-Own Bowl: The ultimate choice for control. Load up on dark leafy greens, roasted vegetables, and a lean protein like blackened chicken or tofu.
• Nutrition Notes: Bowls typically range from 350 to 750 calories. Protein can easily exceed 30g with smart choices. Be mindful of dressings, as they can add 150-300 calories and significant sodium.
• Dietary Accommodations: Excellent for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and paleo diets. Allergen information is clear and accessible online.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Always ask for dressing on the side to control portions. Double your base of greens (like kale or spinach) for minimal calories and maximum nutrients.

2. CAVA

• Overview: CAVA brings the vibrant, wholesome flavours of the Mediterranean to a fast-casual format. With a focus on fresh dips, grilled proteins, and flavorful toppings, it’s a fantastic choice for a satisfying and nutrient-dense meal. (This aligns well with principles found in a Mediterranean diet guide.)
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Greens + Grains Bowl: The perfect balance of fibre-rich grains and fresh salad greens.
  • Salad Bowl with Grilled Chicken: A classic high-protein, low-carb option.
  • RightRice®: A high-protein, high-fibre rice alternative made from lentils, chickpeas, and peas.
• Nutrition Notes: A well-built bowl can land between 500-800 calories with 25-50g of protein. Watch the dips and dressings; options like Crazy Feta and Harissa are flavorful but add sodium and fat. Hummus and Tzatziki are excellent, healthier choices.
• Dietary Accommodations: Ideal for vegan and vegetarian diets (including falafel and roasted vegetables). Most items are naturally gluten-free; however, pita bread is an exception.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Load up on the free vegetable toppings, such as pickled onions, tomato and cucumber salad, and shredded romaine. Choose one healthy dip or spread, such as hummus, to help keep calories and sodium in check.

3. Chipotle Mexican Grill

• Overview: A pioneer in the customizable fast-casual space, Chipotle remains a go-to for high-protein, macro-friendly meals. While a burrito can easily top 1,000 calories, smart ordering at Chipotle transforms it into a fitness enthusiast’s dream.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Lifestyle Bowl: Pre-configured bowls for Keto, Paleo, and Whole30® diets make ordering simple.
  • Salad Bowl with Chicken or Steak: Skip the rice and beans and double up on fajita veggies for a low-carb, high-protein powerhouse.
  • Sofritas: An excellent plant-based protein option for vegetarians and vegans.
• Nutrition Notes: A “hacked” bowl can be under 500 calories with over 40g of protein. Key calorie sources are the tortilla, rice, sour cream, and queso. Sodium can be high, so skip the salty vinaigrette.
• Dietary Accommodations: Strong options for gluten-free, paleo, keto, vegan, and vegetarian needs.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Order a bowl instead of a burrito to save over 300 calories. Ask for “light” rice or beans to reduce carbs while still getting fibre. Opt for salsa instead of the vinaigrette for a lower-calorie dressing.

4. Panera Bread

• Overview: Panera has made significant strides in cleaning up its menu, removing artificial preservatives, sweeteners, and flavours. It offers a wide variety of salads, soups, and sandwiches that can fit into a healthy lifestyle, making it a reliable option for both families and professionals.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Green Goddess Cobb Salad with Chicken: Packed with protein and fresh greens.
  • Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich: Order on whole-grain bread for a fibre-rich, satisfying vegetarian meal.
  • Turkey Chilli: A hearty, high-protein, and high-fibre soup option, especially in cooler months.
• Nutrition Notes: Salads typically range from 400 to 600 calories. Soups can be a hidden source of sodium; the “Ten Vegetable Soup” is one of the best low-sodium choices. Be wary of creamy dressings and sugary pastries.
• Dietary Accommodations: Good vegetarian selection. Gluten-free options are limited, primarily available in salads and some soups.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Use the “You Pick Two” option to pair a half-salad with a broth-based soup for a balanced, lower-calorie meal. Swap the default side of bread or chips for an apple.

5. The Veggie Grill

• Overview: A haven for plant-based eaters, The Veggie Grill proves that vegan fast food can be both delicious and diverse. From burgers to bowls to salads, everything is 100% plant-based, making it easy for vegans and the veg-curious to order with confidence. (Explore high-protein vegetarian recipes for more ideas.)
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Kale + Quinoa Power Salad: A nutrient-dense salad with avocado, chickpeas, and a ginger-papaya vinaigrette.
  • Sonoran Bowl: A flavorful mix of quinoa, black beans, fire-roasted corn, and avocado, topped with a spicy vegan sour cream.
  • Classic Romaine Caesar: A surprisingly satisfying and healthy take on the Caesar, using plant-based protein.
• Nutrition Notes: Although all options are plant-based, not all are low-calorie. Fried items and creamy sauces can add up. Stick to the bowls and salads for the most nutrient-dense options. Protein comes from sources like tempeh, tofu, and house-made veggie patties.
• Dietary Accommodations: Entirely vegan. Good gluten-free options are available and clearly marked.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Ask for sauce on the side. Many bowls can be customised with extra greens or by swapping a heavier base for quinoa or a supergreens blend.

6. Smoothie King

• Overview: For a meal in a cup, Smoothie King is a top contender. With their “Clean Blends” initiative, they focus on using whole fruits and vegetables without added sugar in many of their smoothies. It’s an excellent choice for a quick breakfast or post-workout recovery meal.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Gladiator® Smoothies: High-protein (45g) and low-carb, designed for fitness goals.
  • Slim-N-Trim™ Smoothies: Under 300 calories for a 20-oz serving, focused on fibre and protein for satiety.
  • Vegan Pineapple Spinach: A refreshing, whole-food smoothie packed with vitamins.
• Nutrition Notes: Calories can range from 200 to over 1,000. The key is to avoid smoothies with turbinado sugar, frozen yoghurt, or other sugary bases. Stick to the “Get Slim” or “Stay Healthy” blends.
• Dietary Accommodations: Excellent for dairy-free and vegan diets (using plant-based proteins). Most smoothies are naturally gluten-free.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Check the ingredient list before ordering. Ask to remove the turbinado (added sugar) from any smoothie—the fruit often provides enough sweetness. Add a “Metabolism Boost” or “Fibre Blend” enhancer for extra benefits.

7. Subway

• Overview: One of the most accessible and budget-friendly options on the list, Subway’s customizable sandwiches can be a very healthy choice if ordered correctly. The focus on vegetables and lean proteins is its greatest strength.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Oven Roasted Turkey on 9-Grain Wheat: A classic low-fat, high-protein choice.
  • Veggie Delite Salad or Sandwich: Load it up with every available vegetable for a fibre-packed meal.
  • No Bready Bowls™: All the sandwich fillings served in a bowl for a great low-carb alternative.
• Nutrition Notes: A 6-inch turkey breast sandwich on wheat with plenty of veggies contains approximately 250-300 calories. Avoid creamy dressings, extra cheese, and processed meats like salami or meatballs to keep fat and sodium down.
• Dietary Accommodations: Good vegetarian options. The bowls and salads are gluten-free; however, there is a risk of cross-contamination with bread.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Double the meat on a 6-inch sandwich for a protein boost without committing to a footlong. Stick to oil and vinegar or mustard for dressing. Ask for your sandwich to be “scooped” to remove some of the bread and save calories.

8. CoreLife Eatery

• Overview: CoreLife Eatery is dedicated to clean, healthy, and great-tasting foods. Their entire menu is free of GMOs, trans fats, artificial colours, sweeteners, and other artificial additives. They specialise in green bowls, grain bowls, and bone broth bowls.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Steak, Bacon & Bleu Cheese Green Bowl: A surprisingly balanced and flavorful keto-friendly option.
  • Tuna Poke Grain Bowl: Rich in omega-3s and lean protein.
  • Chicken & Rice Noodle Broth Bowl: A warming, comforting, and hydrating meal, much lower in sodium than traditional ramen.
• Nutrition Notes: Meals are designed to be nutritionally balanced, with most falling in the 400-700 calorie range. The bone broth is a unique offering, providing a rich source of collagen and essential minerals.
• Dietary Accommodations: Entirely gluten-free menu. Abundant options for keto, paleo, vegan, and vegetarian patrons.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Try one of their freshly made teas or lemonades, which are available in both lightly sweetened and unsweetened options, as a healthy beverage alternative.

9. Tender Greens

• Overview: A chef-led kitchen with a fine-dining approach to fast-casual, Tender Greens offers sophisticated plates, salads, and sandwiches. Their focus is on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and classic culinary techniques.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Backyard Marinated Steak Plate: Served with a side of your choice, such as seasonal vegetables or mashed potatoes (for a special treat).
  • Happy Vegan Salad: A massive, satisfying salad with farro, quinoa, hummus, and lots of fresh veggies.
  • Salt and Pepper Chicken Sandwich: A simple, high-quality sandwich that isn’t loaded with heavy sauces.
• Nutrition Notes: Portion sizes are generous. A plate with protein and a side salad is a perfectly balanced meal, around 500-700 calories.
• Dietary Accommodations: Clearly labelled menus for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free items. They are very accommodating to modifications.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Opt for the simple side salad with sherry vinaigrette as your side to keep the meal light and nutrient-dense.

10. Chopt Creative Salad Co.

• Overview: Primarily located on the East Coast, Chopt is a direct competitor to Sweetgreen, offering an immense variety of ingredients and a rotating menu of “destination” salads. Their claim to fame is the on-the-spot chopping and mixing of your salad, ensuring every bite is integrated.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Kebab Cobb Salad: A Mediterranean take on a classic with feta, chickpeas, and a yoghurt dressing.
  • Mexican Caesar Salad: Features cotija cheese and tortilla chips; request light chips to reduce calories.
  • Build-Your-Own: With over 60 ingredients, the possibilities are endless.
• Nutrition Notes: Be very careful with dressings and “crunchy” toppings. Chopt’s online nutrition calculator is essential for building a healthy bowl, as calories can quickly escalate. Aim for a vinaigrette-based dressing.
• Dietary Accommodations: Extensive vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Use their app to pre-build your salad and see the nutritional information in real-time. This helps avoid impulse decisions at the counter.

11. Just Salad

• Overview: With a mission focused on sustainability (exemplified by their reusable bowl program), Just Salad offers salads, wraps, and warm bowls. They provide detailed nutritional information and have a “Health Tribe” menu section curated by dietitians.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Tokyo Supergreens Salad: A light, flavorful salad with edamame, avocado, and carrots.
  • Keto Zoodle Bowl: A great low-carb option using zucchini noodles as a base.
  • Seasonal Specials: They often feature nutrient-dense, limited-time bowls that are worth trying.
• Nutrition Notes: Calorie counts are listed directly on the menu board, which is a huge help. Most salads fall within the 300-600 calorie range before dressing is added.
• Dietary Accommodations: Clearly marked vegan, gluten-free, and keto options.
• Pro Tip for Ordering: Participate in the reusable bowl program. You not only reduce waste but also receive a free topping (such as an extra vegetable) with every use.

12. Freshii

• Overview: Freshii’s mission is to make healthy food convenient and affordable. Their menu is diverse, including bowls, burritos, salads, wraps, soups, and smoothies, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Oaxaca Bowl: A mix of brown rice, kale, avocado, black beans, and corn. High in fibre and plant-based protein.
  • Metaboost Salad: Field greens, spinach, kale, goat cheese, and mango. Add chicken for a protein kick.
  • Spicy Lemongrass Soup: A light but flavorful broth-based soup.
• Nutrition Notes: Portion sizes are generally reasonable. Their green smoothies are a good, low-sugar option compared to those of their competitors.
• Dietary Accommodations: A strong vegetarian and vegan menu is available. Many items can be made gluten-free by swapping a base or wrap.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Energii Bites are a great small snack for a quick energy boost, but limit to one or two as they are calorie-dense.

13. Qdoba

• Overview: Similar to Chipotle, Qdoba offers a customizable menu with a Mexican-inspired flair. It stands out by including guacamole and queso as free add-ons. While this can be a calorie trap, making smart choices still makes Qdoba a solid and healthy option.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Cauliflower Mash Bowl: A low-carb bowl option that replaces rice with seasoned cauliflower.
  • Salad with Smoked Brisket: Opt for a light dressing or use salsa to top this high-protein option.
  • Taco Trio: Opt for soft corn tortillas and fill them with lean protein, lots of pico de gallo, and fajita veggies.
• Nutrition Notes: Guacamole is a great source of healthy fats, but be mindful of the portion. Queso adds significant calories and saturated fat. A bowl without rice can easily stay under 600 calories.
• Dietary Accommodations: Suitable for gluten-free diets (bowls, corn tortillas), vegetarian options (beans, fajita veggies), and keto diets (cauliflower mash).
• Pro Ordering Tip: Load up on the free salsas (pico de gallo, salsa verde) for flavour instead of creamy sauces or queso.

14. Mendocino Farms

• Overview: This sandwich market adopts a “foodie” approach to fast-casual dining. With locations primarily on the West Coast and in Texas, they are known for their creative sandwiches and salads, which feature high-quality, artisanal ingredients.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • “Save Drake Farm’s” Salad: A sophisticated salad with chicken, goat cheese, apples, and cranberries.
  • The Modern Tuna “Melt”: A healthier take made with pole-and-line caught tuna, served on premium whole-grain bread.
  • Vegan Banh Mi: A flavorful and satisfying plant-based sandwich.
• Nutrition Notes: Quality doesn’t always mean low-calorie. Portions can be large. Use their online nutrition info to guide your choice. The side salads are excellent, healthy alternatives to the default pasta or potato salads.
• Dietary Accommodations: A strong vegan and vegetarian menu is available. Gluten-free bread is available for an extra charge.
• Pro Ordering Tip: Ask for your sandwich “deli style” with the condiments on the side to manage fat and calories. The half sandwich and salad combo is a perfect portion-controlled choice.

15. Bibibop Asian Grill

• Overview: Inspired by the classic Korean dish bibimbap, Bibibop offers a build-your-own-bowl concept with an Asian flavour profile. The entire menu is 100% gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Best Healthy Menu Items:
  • Build-Your-Own Bowl: Start with a base of salad or purple rice, add a protein like chicken or tofu, and top it off with bean sprouts, kale, and kimchi.
  • Sweet Potato Noodles: A unique and nutritious base option.
• Nutrition Notes: The sauces are where calories and sugar can often be hidden. Yum Yum sauce is delicious but high in fat. Go for the lighter Sesame Ginger or the spicy Gochujang. A well-built bowl is around 500-700 calories.
• Dietary Accommodations: 100% gluten-free. Excellent for vegetarian and vegan diets (organic tofu, plenty of veggie toppings).
• Pro Ordering Tip: Kimchi is a fantastic topping choice, offering probiotic benefits and a ton of flavour for very few calories.

Regional Standouts to Watch

• West Coast: Lemonade offers a cafeteria-style experience with a rotating menu of unique salads, braised meats, and sandwiches. It’s a fantastic place for creative, vegetable-forward dishes.
• East Coast: Dig (formerly Dig Inn) specialises in seasonal, locally sourced “farm-to-counter” meals. Their plates consist of a protein, a grain base, and two vegetable sides, offering a well-rounded, home-cooked feel.
• Midwest: Naf Naf Grill brings authentic Middle Eastern flavours to the fast-casual scene. Build your own bowl or pita with options like chicken shawarma, steak, and falafel, complemented by fresh salads and sauces.
• South: Zoës Kitchen (being converted to CAVA in many locations) is a staple for fast-casual Mediterranean food. Their grilled chicken plates, accompanied by a side of Greek salad and roasted vegetables, are a consistently healthy choice.

Strategies for Healthier Fast Food Choices

Drive-Thru vs. App Ordering

Ordering ahead on an app is your best weapon. It removes the pressure of a line behind you, allowing you to review nutrition facts and customise your meal with care. Drive-thrus can lead to impulse buys. If you must use a drive-thru, have your healthy order pre-selected before you pull up.

Budget-Friendly Healthy Picks

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive. A Veggie Delite® bowl from Subway, a bean burrito (hold the cheese) from a Mexican chain, or a side salad and chilli can often be found for under $10. Look for value menus and focus on plant-based proteins, such as beans and tofu, which are typically more affordable. (This is a good strategy when comparing meal prep vs. fast food costs.)

Decoding the Kids’ Menu

Avoid the default fried chicken nuggets and fries. Look for chains that offer grilled chicken strips, apple slices or yoghurt instead of fries, and milk or water instead of soda. Panera Bread and Chipotle often have kid-sized versions of their healthier adult meals.

Healthier Breakfast on the Go

The healthiest fast food breakfast is often not what it’s advertised to be. Skip the sugary pastries and greasy sandwiches. Opt for:

• Oatmeal: Many chains, such as Panera and Starbucks, offer oatmeal. Get it plain and add your own nuts or a small amount of fruit.
• Egg Bites: Starbucks’ Egg Bites are a popular high-protein, low-carb option.
• Smoothies: A protein-rich smoothie from Smoothie King can be a complete breakfast.

Smart Beverage Swaps

Drinks are a major source of hidden sugar and calories.

• Instead of soda: Choose sparkling water, unsweetened iced tea, or plain water.
• Instead of a sugary latte, opt for a black coffee, Americano, or a cappuccino with skim or almond milk.
• Instead of a juice blend: Choose a whole-fruit smoothie or, better yet, eat a piece of whole fruit.

Dessert-Light Treats

Most fast food desserts are not worth the calories they contain. If you need a sweet fix, a small yoghurtyoghurt parfait, a fruit cup, or a single scoop of sorbet (if available) is your best bet.

Understanding the Details

Sustainability and Sourcing

Chains like Sweetgreen, Tender Greens, and CoreLife Eatery are leaders in this area, often highlighting their partnerships with local farms. Chipotle has made significant commitments to humanely raised meats. Look for this information on a chain’s website to support businesses that align with your values.

Allergen Safety and Cross-Contact

For those with serious allergies, transparency is key. Chains like Bibibop (100% gluten-free) and The Veggie Grill (100% vegan) offer the safest environments. For others, it’s crucial to use their online allergen charts and inform the staff of your allergy when ordering. (For an official list of major allergens, refer to the FDA.)

How to Read Fast Food Nutrition Facts

Don’t just look at calories. Pay attention to:

• Sodium: A single meal can easily exceed the recommended daily limit of 2,300 mg. (The American Heart Association provides valuable resources on this topic.) (Consider our low-sodium eating tips for more help.)
• Protein and Fibre: Aim for at least 20g of protein and 5g of fibre to stay full and satisfied.
• Saturated Fat: Keep this as low as possible.
• Sugars: Look for “Added Sugars” specifically. Natural sugars from fruit are fine in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the healthiest fast food breakfast in 2026?

The healthiest options are typically oatmeal without added sugar (available at Panera and Starbucks) or high-protein egg bites (also available at Starbucks). A protein-focused smoothie from Smoothie King’s “Get Slim” menu is also an excellent choice.

2. What are the best low-sodium fast food options at a drive-thru?

Your best bet is a simple grilled chicken sandwich or salad with dressing on the side. At a Mexican-style drive-thru, order tacos on corn tortillas with grilled meat and salsa, skipping cheese and sour cream.

3. Which fast food chains are best for gluten-free diets?

Bibibop Asian Grill is 100% gluten-free. Chipotle and CoreLife Eatery also have extensive gluten-free options and protocols. For salads, Sweetgreen and Chopt are safe bets, provided you choose gluten-free toppings.

4. Where can I find high-protein fast-casual bowls?

Chipotle is a leader in this regard, where a custom bowl can easily contain over 50g of protein. CAVA, CoreLife Eatery, and Sweetgreen also offer bowls where you can double the protein (like chicken or steak) for a high-protein meal.

5. What are some good keto-friendly options at salad chains?

At chains like Sweetgreen or Chopt, build a bowl with a base of dark leafy greens, add a fatty protein like salmon or steak, include low-carb veggies like cucumbers and broccoli, and top with avocado and an oil-based vinaigrette. Just Salad offers “Keto Zoodle Bowls.”

6. Are there good vegan choices at Mediterranean chains like CAVA?

Absolutely. CAVA is excellent for vegans. A bowl with salad, grains, or lentils as a base, topped with falafel or roasted vegetables, hummus, and plenty of vegetable toppings, is a delicious and complete vegan meal.

7. What are some macro-friendly ordering tips for any fast food place?

Always prioritise lean protein (such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu). Double the vegetables whenever possible. Choose whole-grain bases (brown rice, quinoa) or go with a salad base to reduce carbs.

8. Can I find affordable, healthy fast food for under $10?

Yes. A Subway 6-inch turkey sandwich, a Chipotle veggie bowl with beans and fajita veggies, or a “You Pick Two” combo of soup and salad at Panera can often be found for under $10, offering good nutritional value.

9. What are the best healthy kids’ meals at fast food chains?

Look for grilled chicken options instead of fried. Chains like Panera offer kid-sized versions of their healthy bowls and sandwiches. Chipotle’s kids’ meal allows you to build a small, healthy taco plate with sides of fruit or beans.

10. How can I spot added sugars at fast food chains?

Check the nutrition facts online. Added sugars are often hidden in sauces (such as BBQ and teriyaki), dressings (like honey mustard and raspberry vinaigrette), drinks (including soda, sweetened teas, and many smoothies), and even in seemingly healthy items like yoghurt parfaits with granola.

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