Burger King debuts lower-fat french fries

Burger King Worldwide, known for its “Whopper” hamburgers, has introduced lower-fat french fries as consumer groups and nutrition experts in the United States increase pressure on the food industry to offer healthier alternatives.

The Miami-based hamburger chain late on Monday said its new “Satisfries” contain 40 per cent less fat and 30 per cent fewer calories than those sold by archrival McDonald’s Corp, which is widely considered to have the fast-food industry’s most popular french fries.

McDonald’s declined on Tuesday to say whether it will offer its own lower-fat fries.

Some restaurant operators are embracing healthier food in large part because many consumers will pay a bit more for it.

To that end, Burger King will sell its new fries for a premium, at a suggested price of US$1.89 for a small portion versus US$1.59 for its existing fries. A small serving of the new Satisfries has 270 calories and 11 grams of fat, while the older Burger King fries have 340 calories and 15 grams of fat.

Burger King’s new fries are crinkle-cut and thinly coated with a batter that absorbs less oil, the company said. They were developed in partnership with french fry supplier McCain Foods and are exclusive to Burger King, a spokeswoman told Reuters.