Burger King: No More Soda For Kids


Burger King has removed soda from their kids menu, in an effort to encourage healthy eating. Although the fast-food giant offers milk and juice as healthier options, soda remained the most popular choice. In response to the ongoing issue, Burger King announced that they will remove soda from their children’s menu, effective immediately.

The important change was encouraged by the Center for Science in the Public Interest and MomsRIsing. As reported by Forbes, Arby’s, McDonald’s, and Wendy’s, already removed soda from their kids menus. However, Burger King continued to offer soda as the default option for children’s meals.

Center for Science in the Public Interest Director Margo G. Wootan applauds Burger King’s decision to remove soda from their kids menu. Wootan said the change will help children, and their parents, make healthier decisions.

“It will help children eat better now, as soda is the leading source of calories in children’s diets. It also helps to set kids on a path toward healthier eating in the future, with fewer kids becoming conditioned to think that soda should be a part of every eating out occasion.”

As reported by USA Today, Wootan said soda is one of the top contributors to childhood obesity. According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 18 percent of children between the ages of six and 11 are obese. As children form eating habits at an early age, advocacy groups have pressured fast-food restaurants to help children and their parents make better choices.

MomsRIsing Director Monifa Bandale said the decision is a “great first step.” However, she encourages all fast-food restaurants to offer healthier options on their children’s menus.

“… we urge all fast-food restaurants to further improve upon their healthy options for children… by serving whole grain rolls, offering more fruit and vegetable options, reducing sodium across the menu, and adopting a comprehensive policy to limit the marketing of unhealthy food to children.”

According to the Burger King website, soda was already removed from the kids menu. Instead, children have the option of choosing fat free white milk, low fat chocolate milk, or Capri Sun apple juice. Children are also encouraged to order apple slices or Satisfries as opposed to original french fries.

Burger King’s decision to eliminate soda from their kids menu is being applauded. However, advocacy groups would like to see more positive steps in the future.

[Image via Justin Sullivan/Getty Images]

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