The Worst Drive-Through Foods in America

Time and money are two things Americans can’t afford to waste. So it’s not surprising (though slightly disappointing) that the drive-through is considered one of the great inventions of all time. There’s even a study to prove it. In 2005 and 2006, researchers asked 600 adults and teens why they eat so much fast food. Three of the top four responses were it’s quick, easy, and affordable. Taste came in third, with only 69 percent of respondents listing flavor as a factor in their fast-food love.

Drive-through foods may be convenient and easy on the wallet, but they’re loaded with unhealthy fats, added sugars, carbohydrates, and sodium. Translation: They’re no bargain  when it comes to your health. But jam-packed schedules and a dismal economy make the occasional drive-through meal a part of life. That’s why Eat This, Not That! studied the open-air menu boards and compiled a list of the worst items out there, plus better alternatives. Avoid these dietary land mines and save more than a few minutes and a couple bucks—how does up to 20 pounds in a year sound?

WORST DRINK

Sonic Minute Maid Cranberry Juice Slush (“Route 44”–extra large)

• 616 calories
• 165 g sugars

In its pure form, antioxidant-packed cranberry juice is a healthy choice. But this Cranberry Juice Slush comes with an asterisk next to the word “cranberry” on the Web site’s nutrition list. That’s probably because only 78 of the whopping 616 calories come from “cranberry flavor”—the rest of the bulk comes from the “slush.” Consider that a code word for sugar overload: the extra-large has the sugar equivalent of six packs of M&Ms. Check out our list of the 20 worst drinks in America to see other equally atrocious beverages.

Drink This Instead:

Cranberry Flavored Tea (medium)

• 42 calories
• 10 g sugar

WORST VALUE-MENU ITEM

Burger King Spicy Chick’n Crisp Sandwich

• 450 calories
• 30 g fat (5 g saturated fat)
• 810 mg sodium

Lean economic times make the value menu more appealing than ever. And that’s fine—most dollar menus have a few sensible items. But if you eat this sandwich often, saving a few bucks will quickly result in a surplus around your waistline.

Eat This Instead:

Whopper Jr. without mayo

• 290 calories
• 12 g fat (4.5 g saturated fat)
• 500 mg sodium