So what does “high-quality” food mean?
Certain fast-food chains pride themselves on simple ingredientsno artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
And unlike thesketchy leftover burger patties in Wendy’s chili, there are no secret ingredients here.
Photos: The brands. Design: Eat This, Not That!
In-N-Out
This popularWest Coastburger spot has a simple menu, made from simple and high-quality ingredients.
Also on the menu, is the chain’s infamous hand-cut fresh French fries.
The in-house making doesn’t just stop there.
Photo: Gerry Matthews / Shutterstock. Design: Eat This, Not That!
In 2015, Panera published its “No No List,” which bans the use of artificial ingredients.
Their springTulip Cookieuses Vegetable Glycerine, Red Beet Concentrate, and Annatto to get that bright pink color.
Panera also changes its menu seasonally to avoid using artificial ingredients, focusing instead on what’s fresh.
Photo: Panera Bread. Design: Eat This, Not That!
We use strawberries in the summer when we know they’re going to be amazing.
And, if not already obvious, Panera is transparent about what’s in their food.
They are actually the first national restaurant company todisplay the whole grain contents of breadon its menu.
Photo: Tada Images / Shutterstock. Design: Eat This, Not That!
In fact, in 2017, Chipotle announced a new tortilla recipe that only contained two to five ingredients.
The flour tortillas now have only flour, water, canola oil, salt, and yeast.
The chain has recentlyexpanded its vegetarian optionsas well, using only premium, real ingredients.
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The company was actually funded by college students looking for healthier food that they could grab and go.
All ofSweetgreen’s ingredientsare outlined for customers to easily view.
The chainuses 100% natural American Angus Beefwith no steroids, antibiotics, or artificial growth hormones.
Photo: Courtesy of Sweetgreen
Noodles & Company is committed toclean ingredients, working with 14 fresh vegetables prepared daily.
Italso usescage-free eggs, antibiotic-free and hormone-free bacon, and organic milk and tea.
Transparency is keythey keep their ingredients simple, real, and readily available for customers to see.
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The chain already has a running list ofingredients that they pledge to avoid.
A previous version of this article was originally published on May 1, 2022.
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