Best Healthy Food Franchises To Buy In 2024

In 2017, a study found that 22% of adult deaths were associated with poor diet and cardiovascular disease as the leading result. In the years that followed, the general public has become more conscientious about the food they consume and the healthy food franchise industry has experienced rapid growth. People are seeking fresh ingredients, including plenty of fruit and vegetables, served in a way that tastes goods and still allows them to enjoy the convenience of eating out.

These 10 healthy food franchises deliver on all those fronts. From salads to smoothie bowls to fresh teriyaki, these brands offer food packed full of nutrients to meet the rising demand for healthier options on the go.

Nautical Bowls

Initial Investment: $251,000 to $475,000

Unit Count: 56

Nautical Bowls is known for its superfood bowls that are all gluten-free, dairy-free, plant-based and soy-free. All ingredients are organic as well. The bowls contain ingredients such as berries, coconut, granola, mango, oatmeal and peanut butter. The brand offers a menu of pre-selected combinations for its bowls, or customers can create their own.

Smoothie King

Initial Investment: $312,000 to $1,038,000 

Unit Count: 1103

Smoothie King has been making nutritious smoothies since 1973. In 1989, it became the first smoothie franchise in the United States. The brand prides itself on creating smoothies that help people achieve specific goals, whether the focus is weight management or nutrition. Consumers can also add powdered “enhancers” to their smoothies such as extra protein, energy or collagens. Smoothie King has expanded over the years to sell energy bars and vitamin supplements too. 

Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh

Initial Investment: $543,000 to $666,000

Unit Count: 20+

The Mediterranean diet is well-known for being full of nutritious ingredients. This brand’s menu features healthy options, including stuffed pitas, wraps, gyros, salads and rice bowls, with dishes packed full of nutrients, protein and fiber. 

Goodness Bowls

Initial Investment: $302,000 to $477,000

Unit Count: 2

This fairly new business franchise was started by a mother-daughter duo who believes “goodness yields goodness.” The brand offers acai bowls, fresh juices, pitaya bowls and green bowls, along with “avo-smashes” — avocado on sourdough toast with a myriad of healthy toppings. 

The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill

Initial Investment: $572,828 to $936,778

Unit Count: 21

At The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, all daily meals are made from scratch with fresh ingredients. The brand serves healthy Mediterranean cuisine, with the menu offering a selection of soups, salads, gyros and other Greek entrees, baklava and kids’ meal options.

Teriyaki Madness

Initial Investment: $312,000 to $731,000

Unit Count: 130+

Teriyaki Madness is a Japanese cuisine franchise concept that offers dine-in options, as well as take-home options. All of the food is made fresh-to-order and includes nutritious ingredients such as lean proteins and stir-fry vegetables. 

Chop5

Initial Investment: $356,700 to $873,700

Unit Count: 3

CHOP5 Salad Kitchen offers customers a variety of chopped salads, wraps and rice bowls, all made with fresh ingredients. Consumers can select from the menu or build their own bowl. The brand also serves up a variety of soups.

Tropical Smoothie Cafe

Initial Investment: $296,500 to $661,500

Unit Count: 1,197

The brand has a beach theme to promote a relaxed atmosphere. It serves healthy smoothies with optional supplements such as whey protein, vitamins and probiotics. Unlike many other smoothie concepts, the menu also features a wide range of food options, including sandwiches, wraps and flatbreads. 

Rush Bowls

Initial Investment: $200,000 to $545,000

Unit Count: 38

Rush Bowls was founded in Boulder, Colorado and offers freshly blended fruit bowls, topped with granola, honey, protein supplements and other fresh ingredients. The brand offers dine-in, online ordering, delivery and catering options to consumers. 

Acai Express

Initial Investment: $158,400 to $429,000

Unit Count: 52

Acai Express specializes in organic acai bowls, making healthy choices easier for people who are on-the-go. The menu also features smoothies and artisan toasts with high-protein toppings such as avocado or salmon. 

If you are looking for your next business venture, a healthy food franchise is an excellent choice given the current industry trends. These 10 are favorites among many consumers. Which healthy food concept is your personal favorite: smoothies, salads, acai bowls or Mediterranean cuisine?