Fast food is an undeniable staple in American dining culture, offering consumers a quick, affordable, and indulgent eating option. However, convenience comes with a cost—especially when it comes to the nutritional value of certain menu items. One such item, the fast food burger, has come under increasing scrutiny by health organizations due to its contribution to the rise in chronic diseases, such as obesity and heart disease.
While not all burgers are created equal, some pack significantly more unhealthy ingredients than others. A recent study by PlushCare has pinpointed the Five Guys Cheeseburger as the unhealthiest fast food burger in America. This assessment, based on factors like calories, saturated fat, sodium, and sugar content, highlights the alarming nutritional profile of this popular fast food item.
The Study: Ranking America’s Burgers by Health Risk
The PlushCare study examined fast food burgers from 24 chains, focusing on key nutritional elements that directly affect health, including calories, fat content (especially saturated fat), sodium, and sugar. Among these, the Five Guys Cheeseburger emerged as the worst offender, receiving an “unhealthiness” score of 50.
This score placed it far above other well-known burgers, such as the Whataburger Jalapeño & Cheese and the Classic Smash from Smashburger, both of which had scores of 42. The Five Guys burger’s sky-high calorie count, dangerous levels of saturated fat, and excessive sodium made it stand out as the unhealthiest choice for diners concerned about their long-term well-being.
Nutritional Breakdown of the Five Guys Cheeseburger
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