People love fast food, but have you ever wondered which restaurant is the local favorite, how much people spend on meals, and how nutritious is the food? Many people frequently get fast food but some places are healthier than others.
In a poll surveying teenagers’ favorite fast food, taking the lead is In-N-Out, with Chipotle coming in second and Chick-fil-A and McDonalds in a tie for last place.
Even though McDonald’s wasn’t a favorite amongst teens, Sienna Vergon, a 9th-grade student seems to be convinced that it’s the best. She said, “It always hits the spot and they have so many good options.”
McDonald’s has about 145 items on their menu — the most options out of all these fast food places. McDonald’s most popular items are their fries and Big Mac, which use lots of oils, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. McDonald’s may be delicious, but it isn’t the healthiest.
If you want a healthier option, Chick-fil-A has kale salad and grilled chicken nuggets, but if you’re looking for something to fill your cravings, the waffle fries and chicken sandwiches are a delicious alternative.
Coming in second place is Chipotle. A 9th-grade student at HBHS, Tereza Bednarik, said, “Chipotle [is my favorite] because it has protein and is healthier than other fast food places.”
In contrast to other fast food places, Chipotle uses fresh ingredients that don’t contain any processed additives. Their most popular item to order is the burrito bowl which leans towards being healthy or unhealthy depending on its toppings. People like the diversity of their bowls and the many options they have including their salsas and a wide selection of beans, rice and proteins.
Finally, in first place is In-N-Out. Ainsley Dadakis, an 8th-grade student at Talbert Middle School said, “In-N-Out is very yummy and has great fries”
Isabella Butler, a 9th-grade student agreed saying the food tastes great.
Many people like In-N-Out because they have fresh food and their burgers are made of quality meat. Some of their most popular items include any of their “animal style” plates (especially their fries) that are made with melted cheese, their famous sauce and grilled onions. Their protein-style burger is another popular item has a delicious patty with lettuce wrapped around it in the place of a bread bun.
Based on a survey sent to Huntington Beach teens, on average, they go to fast food restaurants around one to three times a week. They spend 10 to 15 dollars each time they go which adds up to 30 to 45 dollars a week, costing a yearly price of about $1,440 to $2,160.
Overall, teenagers really love In-N-Out, Chipotle, Mcdonald’s and Chick-fil-A. While they are known as fast food places, they do have some healthier options at low prices, making their food accessible for everyone.
