Low Calorie Menu Items Key Drivers for Fast Food Franchises, According to Recent Study

By JORDAN BRANDES Low calorie menu have been outperforming traditional food options at fast food franchises all across the country. Giving consumers healthier menu items will help fast food and quick service franchises improve their performance metrics, says a study released last month by the research organization The Hudson Institute. The report, which analyzed metrics from 21 popular fast food franchises during the period of 2006 to 2011, found that even fast food standbys like french fries saw a decline in demand when healthier options are available. Offering healthier food options has been a growing trend among fast food and quick service franchises but this new data suggests that low calorie options should be here to stay for the sake of both the franchisee and the consumer.