30 Fast Food Facts That Are Actually False

Fast food has been a staple in our diets for a few decades, and there is a lot of misinformation floating around. Let us set the record straight on some common myths. Here are 30 fast food facts that are actually false. 

Fast Food is Always Unhealthy

It might be easy to assume that all fast food is inherently bad for your health, but that is not entirely accurate. These days, fast food restaurants often offer healthier choices on their menus, including salads that feature lean proteins, fruit cups, or yogurt parfaits. That way, you can either opt for a greasy burger or choose to make a lighter, more nutritious meal with other options. 

Fast Food Burgers Are 100% Beef

If you think that when you consume a fast-food burger, you eat 100% beef, you are wrong. Some fast-food patties usually have fillers or even additives for taste enhancement and cost-cutting. If you want a real beef experience, read the menu description, check the ingredient list, or ask the staff.

Fast Food Fries Are Just Potatoes and Oil

Fries may seem like a simple dish, merely potatoes fried in oil, but the truth is somewhat more complicated. Many fast-food restaurants include extra ingredients in their fries, such as preservatives for freshness or flavorings to improve taste. Also, the type of oil can affect both the flavor and the health quotient of the fries.

Fast Food Chicken Nuggets Are Made from Real Chicken

While chicken nuggets do contain chicken, they might not be the pure, whole-muscle chicken breast you might expect. Nuggets are often made from mechanically separated chicken, containing a combination of chicken meat, skin, and sometimes even small portions of bone. Also, they may be breaded and deep-fried, adding extra calories and fat.

Fast Food Salads Are Always a Healthy Choice

Even though it is a salad, it does not mean it is healthy. Several salads are topped with high-calorie ingredients like fried chicken, cheese, croutons, and creamy dressings that may have as many calories as a burger and fries. Choose salads rich in fresh vegetables, grilled proteins, and light dressing.

Fast Food Chicken is Healthier Than Beef

Not necessarily. While we know chicken is leaner than beef, fast food chicken is mostly fried or soaked in sugary sauce and then further preserved in chemicals. So, these processes naturally increase the calorie count. If you are conscious of your waistline, then stewed chicken is safer.

Fast Food Causes Obesity

It is easy to say obesity happens because of having fast food, but the reality is not as black and white as people may believe. Genetics, behavior, and general diet are all factors that affect obesity. But processed foods high in calories, fat, and sugar are also quite detrimental to health and will eventually result in weight gain and obesity. 

All Fast-Food Burgers Are Created Equal

Burgers can be as simple or elaborate as you want. Adding numerous hamburger patties alone can turn a burger into a calorie bomb, and that is without even considering the bacon, cheese, or heavy cream sauce. So, pay attention to ingredient labels and serving sizes if you want healthier fast-food burgers.

Fast Food is Always Cheaper Than Cooking at Home

Although it may seem that dollar-menu or value deals are cheaper, they can get expensive, particularly for families. Moreover, cooking at home lets you control the ingredients and portion size, which is sometimes far better, healthier, and cheaper. Meal planning and proper shopping can help save money and enjoy well-cooked and balanced diets. 

Fast Food Coffee is Inferior to Coffee Shop Brews

Fast-food coffee has evolved over time, and some outlets even offer quality brews that can compete well with coffee shops. This is majorly due to the increased consumer preference for better coffee. Also, most of the time, the cost of instant coffee is far cheaper than that of coffee shops, which comes as an advantage if you are looking for a cup of coffee on a budget.

Fast Food is Loaded with Preservatives

This idea actually no longer holds good for most fast-food joints. The reason is that customers have become more aware of their food choices and are quite vocal about them, too. So many fast-food joints are trying to cut the amount of food additives and preservatives they use in their menus. The best way to know is to ask. 

Fast Food Ice Cream is Made with Real Cream

Not all fast-food ice cream is made with real cream. Some fast-food chains use cheaper alternatives like milk powder or vegetable oil to create soft serve or ice cream products. The reason is simple, because it helps them keep costs down but can sometimes affect the taste and texture of the ice cream. 

Fast Food Always Tastes the Same

While most fast-food chains try to maintain a consistent taste and flavor, it can sometimes vary. Factors such as the quality of their ingredients, how the dish is prepared and cooked, and sometimes the staff skill can affect the taste. Even the skill level of the staff preparing your meal can make a difference. So, if your favorite burger does not taste as it did last time, one of these factors could have caused the change.

Fast Food Fish is a Healthy Option

Most of us think fish is a healthier alternative to red meat. But it is not always the case. Most fast-food fish menus are cooked in a lot of oil, increasing calories and making it almost unhealthy. Try to find grilled fish sandwiches or sticks, which are much better and healthier options.

Fast Food Portions Are Standardized

Most people think all fast-food servings are the same, but that is not true. The sizes of the servings vary largely depending on the chain and even the locality. So, the number of calories in your meal may be different. You can check the serving size and ask for a smaller or bigger size, depending on your preference. 

Fast Food Is the Main Cause of Diabetes

While a diet rich in fast food is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, it is not the only cause. Diabetes is a slightly complicated condition, and it can happen due to a lot of factors like genetics, lifestyle, and the overall diet. It is true that fast food increases the risk of diabetes, mainly because it accelerates weight gain, but it is just one factor.

Fast Food Desserts Are Always a Calorie Nightmare

There is no denying that many fast-food desserts are a calorie bomb. However, many chains have introduced lighter options. Or you can go for smaller portions or reduced calorie content. You can even opt for low-calorie parfaits or creamy yogurts that can satisfy your sweet craving without being entirely out of calorie balance.

Fast Food Is Always High in Trans Fats

Everyone knows trans fats are bad for heart health and can cause heart issues. As a result, many fast-food chains have removed or reduced them from their meals. However, always read the nutritional information on your meal box. Some may still contain trans fats or other unhealthy fats.

Fast Food Smoothies Are Always a Healthy Choice

While fast food smoothies appear to be great and nourishing choices, they are not. These drinks are mostly sugary and high in calories and should be treated as candies rather than snacks. Some fast-food joints also use fruit-flavored syrups rather than whole fruit. So, always read the label and pick a product with whole fruit and less sugar.

Fast Food Always Uses Low-Quality Ingredients

Many fast-food joints have been responding to demands for better quality ingredients from consumers. So, now they are using fresh and quality ingredients. Others have begun serving antibiotic-free chicken or organic produce. As such, the quality of fast food will always depend on where you buy it from, and sometimes, it will differ even from one locality to another. 

Fast Food Can’t Be Part of a Balanced Diet

It is possible to incorporate fast food into a balanced diet, but what type of fast-food meals is the question you should ask. Most experts advise choosing meals with more lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables that are high in saturated fats, sugar, and sodium. For example, a grilled chicken sandwich plus a salad on the side is much better than a double cheeseburger with large fries.

Fast Food Sodas Are More Fattening Than Store-Bought

The caloric content of sodas is generally consistent regardless of where you purchase them. However, the key difference lies in the serving sizes at fast food joints, which are usually much bigger than standard cans or bottles. You can end up consuming more sugar and calories than you expect. Going for a smaller size or drinking water is always the healthier option.

Fast Food Always Leads to Overeating

Overeating is a risk in any eating situation, not just with fast food. Fast food restaurants serve up big portions and high-calorie options, naturally increasing the possibility of overeating. However, as long as you listen to your body’s hunger signals, opt for smaller alternatives, and say no to extras, you can always enjoy fast food.

Fast Food Breakfasts Are the Worst Way to Start the Day

While some fast-food breakfast options are laden with calories, fat, and sodium, there are healthier choices available. Many chains now offer breakfast sandwiches with egg whites, whole-grain wraps, and oatmeal with fruit. You can go for lighter options and enjoy a convenient and tasty breakfast that aligns with a balanced diet.

Fast Food Meat is Always Hormone and Antibiotic-Free

Some fast-food chains use antibiotic-free and hormone-free meat, but there are many others who do not. So, if you want to avoid antibiotics and hormones in your meat, you should ideally look for a label from the chain or make it a practice whenever you eat out.

Fast Food is Always a Quick Option

Most of the time – yet not always. Long lines, complex orders, and reluctant employees make your fast-food experience anything but fast. But if you are in a hurry and want food within a few minutes, it is better to use the restaurant app and order it at home. Another option is ordering food or buying food from the chains that have pre-made food.

Fast Food Contains Harmful Chemicals

It is not necessarily true that fast food is full of “dangerous chemicals”. Although fast food is probably rich in additives and preservatives, it does not mean they are toxic. Most additives used in food manufacturing are considered safe in the amounts used. But, if you are worried about additives, looking for chains that use natural ingredients might be a good idea.

You Can’t Find Vegetarian or Vegan Options at Fast Food Restaurants

The game has changed nowadays. You can no longer say that there is no food for vegetarians and vegans in fast food chains. Although earlier, this factor had a grain of truth, not anymore. A growing number of popular fast-food chains sell a wide choice of plant-based foods – from veggie burgers to salads and wraps.

Fast Food is Always Cheaper Than Eating at Sit-Down Restaurants

Although fast food is considered cheaper, this is not always the case. Ordering several items for a family could turn out to be more expensive as you purchase many meals together. But if you are going solo, nowadays, fast food and sit-down restaurants both charge almost similar prices unless you compare them with a premium one. 

Fast Food Grilled Chicken is Always the Healthiest Option

Generally, grilled chicken is always healthier than fried chicken. However, it is not the healthiest fast-food option. For one, many grilled chicken fast foods have marinades or sauces high in sodium and calories. For another, they often accompany unhealthy toppings and sides, which only add to the calories.