Turkey Burgers for Health
America's obsession with over-the-top burgers may be officially cooling off. According to data from the Hudson Institute, demand for traditional calorie-laden items at restaurants is falling, with lower-calorie items rising up to take their place. In fact, sales of signature beef burgers at national quick-service chains are down 28% from 2006 to 2011. It's time to turn to turkey burgers for health.
Technomic reported turkey-based burgers appeal to about one-third of consumers. It's perfect that the burgers are appealing, but you can make them sell even faster by pairing them with sides and toppings that appeal to health-conscious consumers.
Pile on Health
Sure gooey Cheddar cheese sauce is appealing—but healthy, it's not. You can still load a turkey burger with flavor without loading it with calories.
- Add low-fat Cotija cheese, guacamole and pico de gallo for a Mexican take.
- Top with turkey bacon, low-fat American cheese and BBQ for a comforting burger.
- Layer with cucumbers, teriyaki and Asian coleslaw for an exciting change of pace.
Pair with Health
If you let your customers build their own burgers, you can still offer them healthy sides to go along with their meals. They'll appreciate the choices beyond french fries.
- Whole grain rice
- Salads
- Fresh, local fruit
- Veggies of the day
Want to find healthy burgers to menu today? Visit our E-Z Menu Ideas and Recipes sections for ready-to-menu ideas.
SOURCE:
Business Week, "Bye, Bye Big Burger?," 2/8/13
