Ranking America’s Most Unhealthy Fast Food Burgers: What Nutritionists Reveal
Discover which fast food burgers lead the nation in unhealthy ingredients and why experts urge mindful choices at popular chains.
Study Reveals America’s Most Unhealthy Fast Food Burgers
Fast food is a staple for millions of Americans, but its impact on health remains a topic of fierce debate. A new study by PlushCare set out to identify and rank the most unhealthy fast food cheeseburgers across 24 major U.S. chains, using a data-driven approach to spotlight the worst offenders and highlight the nutritional details that matter most to consumers.
Methodology: How ‘Unhealthiness’ Was Scored
The researchers compared the closest equivalent cheeseburger at each chain using the following nutritional metrics:
- Calories
- Total sugar
- Saturated fat
- Sodium
These inputs were scored according to the Department of Health’s nutrient profiling method. Each burger received an ‘unhealthiness score’—the higher the score, the more detrimental its nutritional profile.
America’s Top Five Most Unhealthy Fast Food Burgers
According to the PlushCare ranking, these are the cheeseburgers Americans should be most wary of:
| Rank | Restaurant | Cheeseburger | Unhealthiness Score | Key Concern |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Five Guys | Cheeseburger | 50 | 73% more saturated fat than any other listed burger |
| 2 | Whataburger | Cheeseburger | Just behind Five Guys | High in sodium and saturated fat |
| 3 | Smashburger | Classic Smash Cheeseburger | Close third | High calories and fat |
| 4 | Carl’s Jr. | Classic Cheeseburger | Trailing behind | Elevated saturated fat and sodium |
| 5 | Shake Shack | Bourbon Bacon Cheddar Burger | High calorie/fat | Extreme sodium and cholesterol |
The analysis showed that Five Guys’ cheeseburger is particularly notable for its extremely high saturated fat content—73% higher than its closest competitor among all sampled chains.
Why Are These Burgers So Unhealthy?
Saturated fat, excessive sodium, and high sugar are primary contributors. PlushCare’s expert panel notes that while beef itself can be a source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, the levels present in most fast food cheeseburgers far exceed recommended daily limits for fat and sodium.
- Saturated Fat: Excess saturated fat increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Sodium: High sodium intake is linked to hypertension and kidney problems.
- Added Sugar: Though often lower in burgers, sugar counts can add up as part of the total meal.
The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies red meat and ultra-processed foods—the bulk of these menu items—as carcinogenic, suggesting greater risk for chronic diseases over the long term.
Least Unhealthy Fast Food Burgers
Not every option is equally damaging. The study ranked these cheeseburgers at the lower end of the unhealthiness scale:
- Culver’s Butterburger – Unhealthiness score: 17
- Burger King Cheeseburger – Score: 18 (tied)
- McDonald’s Cheeseburger – Score: 18 (tied)
It is important to emphasize that “least unhealthy” does NOT mean the burger is healthful—these menu items are still poor choices for daily consumption.
Comparison Table: Healthiest vs. Least Healthy Options
What others are reading
| Burger | Calories | Saturated Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Unhealthiness Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Five Guys Cheeseburger | High | Highest | High | 50 |
| Culver’s Butterburger | Lower | Lower | Moderate | 17 |
| Burger King Cheeseburger | Low | Low | Low | 18 |
| McDonald’s Cheeseburger | Low | Low | Low | 18 |
Expert Nutritionist Perspectives
Nutritionists weighed in on what these rankings mean for everyday Americans:
- Keri Gans, M.S., R.D.: “Saturated fat and sodium intake are critical for long-term heart and kidney health. High-scoring burgers on this list should be occasional splurges, not regular choices.”
- Courtney Pelitera, M.S., R.D., C.N.S.C.: Not all fast food must be unhealthy—you can often opt for grilled chicken, salads, or plant-based alternatives alongside burgers.
- Angel Planells, M.S., R.D.N.: Fast food is a reality for many Americans, but those with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or kidney issues need to be exceptionally cautious.
Why Do These Scores Matter?
Unhealthiness scores provide a quick way for consumers to compare menu items and factor them into broader dietary choices. For those seeking to minimize health risks, switching to lower-scoring burgers or alternative menu items can make a significant difference over time.
Tips for Healthier Fast Food Choices
If you want to enjoy fast food without entirely sacrificing health, dietitians recommend the following:
- Look for Grilled Alternatives: Chicken or fish are often available grilled rather than fried.
- Skip Cheese and Sauces: These add extra saturated fat and sodium.
- Order Smaller Portions: Scale down from double patties and extra cheese.
- Add Veggies: Some chains offer lettuce, tomato, and onion without significant calorie increases.
- Opt for Water: Avoid sugary sodas and shakes.
Remember, even when choosing a ‘healthier’ burger, moderation is key. No single meal will make or break your health, but dietary patterns matter over weeks and years.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
Individuals with chronic conditions such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and kidney disorders are especially sensitive to excess sodium and saturated fat. Nutrition experts urge these groups to avoid high-scoring burgers and to pay close attention to nutritional information.
Exploring Alternatives: What Else Is on the Menu?
Most chains now offer alternative menu options. Some examples include:
- Grilled chicken sandwiches
- Plant-based burgers (where available)
- Salads with lean protein
- Plain versions (hold the cheese and sauce)
Despite these alternatives, plushCare’s report points out that these options are still secondary on most fast food menus, and consumers should request modifications to best suit their health goals.
Fast Food Consumption Trends
Nearly half of Americans say they want to eat healthier, yet 46% cite cost as a major barrier to making better choices. Fast food’s price and convenience keep many coming back, even if it means making nutritional compromises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most unhealthy fast food burger in America?
A: According to PlushCare’s study, Five Guys’ cheeseburger ranked as the most unhealthy primarily due to its extremely high saturated fat content.
Q: How were the burgers ranked?
A: Researchers scored burgers based on calories, sugar, saturated fat, and sodium using Department of Health nutrient profiling.
Q: Are there any healthy options at major fast food chains?
A: Many chains have added grilled chicken, salads, or plant-based burgers, but these usually require asking for substitutions or modifications.
Q: Why do these scores matter for health?
A: High unhealthiness scores are linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
Q: Should people with health conditions avoid fast food burgers?
A: Yes, especially those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney issues. Choosing lower-sodium, lower-fat menu items is critical.
Conclusion: Balancing Taste, Convenience, and Health
Fast food is an integral part of American culture and economy. While burgers like Five Guys’ cheeseburger may be a tempting treat, their nutritional costs are significant. With proper awareness, moderation, and smart choices, it’s possible to incorporate occasional fast food indulgences into a balanced diet. Ultimately, consumers have power at the counter—knowledge of nutritional scores ensures better decision-making for health and longevity.
References
- https://www.aol.com/unhealthiest-fast-food-burgers-america-123000448.html
- https://local12.com/news/offbeat/fast-food-health-unhealthy-burger-nuggets-chicken-cheese-fries-french-cheeseburger-bad-worse-report-study-mcdonalds-wendys-king-sonic-restaurant
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/a62410328/most-unhealthy-fast-food-burgers-in-america-study/
- https://www.pcrm.org/news/news-releases/avoid-five-fatty-fast-food-flops-summer-physicians-warn
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3862453/
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