Burger King Promotes Healthier Fare to Customers

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Recent reports have revealed that kids are consuming a lot more sodium than they should.

In one study we learned that some reduced-sugar cereals contain more salt than potato chips, and another study showed kids meals may contain almost a day's worth of calories.

Now, according to an AP report, Burger King said it is cutting the amount of sodium in its kids meals and will promote lighter fare to customers to emphasize nutrition. Consumer advocates have criticized fast food chains and big food producers for marketing unhealthy fare to children.

Burger King kids meals marketed to children under 12 will have no more than 600 mg of sodium, and the chain will be promoting menu combinations of 650 calories on its placemats.

The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2300 mg of sodium--about 1 teaspoon of salt--a day for healthy adults, and less for children. High sodium intake can lead to higher blood pressure, which plays a role in heart disease and strokes, according to the article.

Burger King's Chief Executive John Chidsey is quoted in the article: "We have made a strong company-wide commitment to help improve childhood nutrition."

For kid-friendly meals you can make at home, check out our article on how to green your kid's lunch box.

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