McDonald’s has announced a healthier happy meal. As of this Thursday, the children’s meals, known as “cajita feliz,” will have much less sodium, fat, and calories and more fruits and vegetables.
Nutritionists have been consulted and the new menu suits the nutritional needs of children, taking into account the portions they should eat. For example, the protein portion should be the size of a child’s palm. According to recent studies, 1 in 3 children in Costa Rica are overweight which can lead to health issues. McDonald’s is aware that healthy meals are important to families.
All of the breakfast and lunch options for kids are 600 calories or less and under 650 milligrams of sodium. The hamburger comes with lettuce and tomato instead of cheese, to encourage vegetable consumption. The fries are child size. The dessert is 100% applesauce without added sugar or artificial colors or flavors. It comes with 100% apple juice, also without added sugar or artificial colors or flavors. The breakfast menu has an egg and cheese on a muffin without butter. The happy meals come with a toy or book.
