Weighty woes sees McDonald’s boost low fat offerings

McDonald’s says it plans to add low carbohydrate options, low calorie adult “Happy Meals” and pedometers to its menu as part of its long range strategy to help Americans watch their waistlines.

McDonald’s says it plans to add low carbohydrate options, low calorie adult “Happy Meals” and pedometers to its menu as part of its long range strategy to help Americans watch their waistlines.The fast-food giant will roll out an adult version of its children’s Happy Meal on May 6. Customers will get a salad, bottled water and a pedometer, which records the number of steps taken while walking, for about $5, a spokeswoman said.In a nod to the low carbohydrate diet craze sweeping the nation, the chain will also allow customers to order their burgers, or fish, or chicken sandwiches without buns, beginning this month.By mid-summer, parents will also be able to order peeled apple slices with a low-fat caramel dipping sauce, pure apple juice, low fat white and chocolate drinks for their children.”We want to help adults achieve the right balance between their daily calorie intake and physical activity, and to help children adopt active, balanced lifestyle habits early on,” Michael Roberts, the president of McDonald’s USA, said.The changes come as the chain struggles to revamp its image and offerings amid growing concern about the United States’ exploding obesity rates and the attendant medical complications, including diabetes and heart disease.(Source: ABC Health, April 2004)