Health
Australians Prefer Fries Than Salad
The Cancer Council announced that despite a wide range of food options, Australians still prefer to eat unhealthy food.
The research conducted by the body said eat-in diners seldom choose healthy fares. The study conducted purchases comparison of 20 McDonald outlets. Of the 1,449 meals bought, only one percent of the total was healthy.
The study, which appeared in Health Promotion Journal of Australia, indicated although healthier options are available in fast-food restaurants, Australians continue to prefer fries over salads.
Chef and nutritionist Zoe Bingley-Pullin said the results did not surprise her and were quite expected. She said that McDonald’s is not associated with healthy food although the fast-food chain has begun offering healthier options.
McDonald’s refuted claims that people continue to buy unhealthy food from their stores. The company reasoned that healthier options continue to be offered because they sell. Last year, McDonald’s started offering value meals with choices between salad or fries.
When asked whether salads have become as popular as fries, a McDonald’s representative refused to make a categorical statement, saying that the company expects more customers will choose salads.
Jane Martin, spokeswoman for Obesity Policy Coalition, urged fast-food restaurants to come up with healthier fries and burgers.
A recent report from the Diabetes Australia revealed that close to 300 Australians are diagnosed to be diabetics every day. The number of diabetics is expected to grow as much as 3.5 million in the next 20 years.
Diabetes has also become prevalent among people 40 years and below.
