As adult consumers increasingly lean toward the healthier items on restaurant menus, so it goes that the offerings for their children are also heading in the more nutritious direction. To that end, McDonald’s is rolling out the new option for whole, fresh fruit in its Happy Meals, with the introduction of clementines to the kids’ menu.
While Happy Meals have all come with apple slices since 2012, with the option for a side of strawberry yogurt instead of fare like French fries, this will a fruit first for Mickey D’s, the company says in a press release.
Cuties California Clementines will be available at participating locations starting today, as part of the Happy Meals menu or as an a la carte item.
“We know our customers and parents are looking for ways to enjoy more great-tasting and fun sides in our Happy Meals, and Cuties are the perfect fit,” said McDonald’s senior vice president of menu innovation, Greg Watson in the release. “As part of our commitment to help families make more nutritious choices, we’ll continue to explore more fruit and low-fat dairy sides for our youngest customers.”
Some diners may have already noticed the fruit, as McDonald’s tested them in about 70 restaurants around Austin earlier this year. Next up as a possible future fresh choice — “junior” bananas, which I’ve got to guess just means smaller than your average banana.
by Mary Beth Quirk via Consumerist