Taco Bell has a new goal: food that won't kill you, or at least not as quickly. On Wednesday, the fast food restaurant announced its plan to have 20% of its combo meals contain just one-third of the federal government's recommended dietary guidelines. Or roughly 700 calories and 500 mg of sodium. But why one third? Because they want it to be one of three meals you (healthily) consume each day, which goes against the whole "fourth meal" concept but whatever. And when can we expect the relatively healthy-ish combos to take up one fifth of the Taco Bell's combo menu? In 2020, just seven short years away.
"Our customer tastes and needs are evolving," says Greg Creed, CEO at Taco Bell. "They want more balanced options."
So, Americans' tastes and needs have evolved past Cool Ranch Doritos Tacos and "loaded grillers" (loaded baked potatoes wrapped in tortillas)? Maybe, though at least one nutritionist who spoke to USA Today isn't buying it.
"Does anyone actually go to Taco Bell who is worried about calories or sodium?" poses Robyn Flipse, a registered dietian and nutritionist. "I think their target is looking for something that is convenient, low-cost and fills them up...I just don't see anything that supports that people go to Taco Bell wishing it was a little healthier."
Then again, who are we to doubt the people that not only brought us the 1000 calorie Volcano Nachos but also single-handedly saved the U.S. economy?
[Image via AP]