McDonalds Happy Meal Gets Makeover

OAK BROOK, Ill.In an effort to combat Americas obesity epidemic, McDonald's announced its Commitments to Offer Improved Nutrition Choices" initiative, a long-term plan to help customersespecially families and childrenmake nutrition-minded choices when dining out.

The plan includes reducing calories by 20% in its popular Happy Meal and adding a serving of fruit or vegetables. The changes will take effect in some markets in September and be implemented in all 14,000 McDonald's restaurants nationwide by April 2012.

The new Happy Meal will automatically include both produce (apple slices, a quarter cup or half serving) and a new smaller size French fries (1.1 ounces) along with the choice of a Hamburger, Cheeseburger or Chicken McNuggets, and choice of beverage, including new fat-free chocolate milk and 1% low fat white milk.

McDonalds will always try to do the right thing, and we know we can help make a difference in our communities," said Jan Fields, president, McDonalds USA. The commitments were announcing today will guide the future evolution of our menu and marketing."

In 2012, McDonalds also will raise nutrition awareness among children and parents through national marketing initiatives. The company will promote nutrition messages in 100% of its national kids communications, including merchandising, advertising, digital and the Happy Meal packaging. McDonalds also will provide funding for grassroots community nutrition awareness programs.

By 2020, McDonalds will reduce added sugars, saturated fat and calories through varied portion sizes, reformulations and innovations. By 2015, McDonalds will reduce sodium an average of 15% overall across its national menu of food choices.

McDonalds will expand new in-restaurant, website and mobile communications, and marketing vehicles making access to this information even easier. McDonalds debuted its first mobile app so customers can access nutrition information on-the-go on iPhone, iPad, Blackberry and Android devices.