Happy Meals Are Getting Healthier

Posted on Jul 26th 2011 12:00PM by That's Fit Editors By Amanda Chan for AOL Healthy Living
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We all know what's always included in a McDonald's Happy Meal: a burger or chicken nuggets, french fries, a toy, a soft drink. And fruit?

McDonald's announced today (June 26) that it will automatically include both produce AND french fries in every Happy Meal, meaning parents and kids no longer have to opt for either fries or fruit.

And because produce will be included in all Happy Meals, french fry-holder sizes will get smaller -- from 2.4 to 1.1 ounces, ABC News reported.

The revamped Happy Meals will be introduced in September 2011, and will be available in all 14,000 McDonald's restaurants by spring 2012.

While apples will be the main produce option, some McDonald's restaurants may offer carrots, pineapple slices, raisins or mandarin oranges depending on the region and time of the year, according to ABC News. Customers can also request two bags of apple slices instead of apple slices and french fries.

In addition to the Happy Meal changes, McDonald's also plans to reduce sodium in all of its menu items by 15 percent by 2015.

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