What Items Should People Never Order from Fast-Food Restaurants? Perspectives from Current and Former Workers

With the rise of fast-food culture, it's natural for customers to frequently return to their favorite sandwich shops, burger joints, and taco trucks for quick and convenient meals. However, what passed as 'normal' in the fast-food scene can sometimes conceal items that are widely regarded as unhealthy or irrelevant to a healthy diet. Drawing from personal experiences as a former sandwich shop employee, this article delves into the world of fast-food ordering and highlights items that current and former fast-food workers believe people should avoid.

Back to the Sandwich Shop

It's been twenty years since I worked at the sandwich shop, yet I still find myself reminiscing about that man who would come in almost every day, ordering a peanut butter and jelly (PBJ) sandwich. While the sandwich may seem innocent, it's often overlooked as an unhealthy choice in the fast-food realm.

Why would someone order something that’s easy to make at home every single day? There are a few factors at play, including convenience, nostalgia, or perhaps an enticement toward that particular offering. As a former employee, I can attest that while it wasn't the healthiest option, it wasn't the worst either. So, why exactly was he so enamored with the PBJ? Let's explore this and more.

The Second-Most Easy Sandwich to Make

Upon further reflection, the PBJ sandwich is indeed one of the most straightforward to make, just the second easiest after the ham and cheese. This ease of preparation often translates into pre-made products in grocery stores and convenience stores. Yet, when it comes to fast-food establishments, this simplicity blurs into a more guided and indulgent experience.

Commonly Neglected Health Factors

Quite often, fast-food items are categorized based on their nutritional value. A PBJ sandwich, while simple, is typically loaded with added sugars from the jelly and high-calorie bread. Given its popularity, it might lead to a misconception that such items are safe or harmless. However, frequent indulgence can significantly impact one’s overall health.

Key Insights from Current and Former Workers

To uncover more insights, I interviewed several colleagues and current employees to gain a fresh perspective. Here are a few items that they believe customers should occasionally consider avoiding or ordering differently:

1. Fries and Bread

Bread and fries are staples in many fast-food orders, yet these items often carry a high calorie count. While tasty, they can contribute to significant calorie intake without providing substantial nutrition. Current employee Sarah mentions, “The bread is very high in carbohydrates, and most of the time, customers are overly eager to get that foot-long or toast up sandwich without thinking about the accompanying rolls.”

2. Soda vs. Water

Many fast-food establishments offer sodas, which are notorious for their high sugar content. James, another former employee, commented, “I think people order sodas to quench their thirst but forget that they can easily end up consuming too much sugar. Water is a healthier option, and it’s just as refreshing.”

3. Dairy-heavy Menu Items

Menu items like milkshakes and ice cream are notoriously calorie-dense and rich in sugar and fat. Erin, a current employee, stated, “These items are definitely delicious, but they are not the healthiest choices. They can be a treat, but they should be enjoyed in moderation.”

Conclusion

While I won't tell anyone what to order, drawing from personal experience and the insights of colleagues, it's essential to understand that not everything you find on the menu suits every body or every time. The PBJ sandwich might be simple and beloved, but the fast-food industry offers a wide range of menu items with varying nutritional values.

If you're a regular fast-food diner, it’s worthwhile to consider the nutritional information of your menu options. While some items can be enjoyment in moderation, others might need a second thought.

Remember, a balanced diet is key, whether you're eating at a fast-food restaurant or preparing meals at home.

Related Keywords: fast food nutrition, fast food criticism, food ordering tips