Oh Thank God we are saved:)
McDonald's launches anti-obesity campaign
By Lisa Richwine
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - McDonald's Corp. unveiled a health campaign on Thursday starring an adult "Happy Meal" with salad, bottled water and a pedometer, but some critics weren't buying the fast-food giant's healthy message.
The company said it will launch the "Go Active" meals for adults on May 6 nationwide. The meals will be boxed with a brochure urging customers to walk more.
McDonald's, the target of an obesity suit that was twice dismissed in federal court, and criticism of its fatty foods from dietary experts, already has been promoting healthier choices on its menu such as new salads.
The maker of Big Mac and Quarter Pounder sandwiches is one of many food companies seeking ways to appeal to customer desires for healthier food.
"It's the right thing for our customers ... and it's good for our business," Mike Roberts, head of McDonald's U.S. business, said of the new campaign.
Shares of McDonald's fell 7 cents to close at $26.93 on the New York Stock Exchange.
The Oak Brook, Illinois-based company announced its latest efforts to build a healthier image in Washington, where Congress is considering legislation to block lawsuits blaming the food industry for making people fat.
The world's largest fast-food chain won praise from Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson, who has urged food makers to help fight the U.S. obesity epidemic.
"It's important to recognize companies doing the right thing," Thompson said, standing amid McDonald's executives at a news conference.
More than 30 percent of U.S. adults are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
WATCHDOG WANTS BIGGER CHANGES
Food industry watchdog Michael Jacobson said the McDonald's announcement "advances public relations more than it does public health."
"The company's small steps seem more designed to forestall the big steps the government should be taking to prevent obesity and heart disease," said Jacobson, executive director of the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
Jacobson said Thompson should push for major changes such as requiring nutrition information on menus and ridding schools of junk food.
McDonald's said new advertisements will promote "balanced lifestyles" and encourage consumers to burn off the calories through exercise.
In June, McDonald's restaurants nationwide will offer alternatives to french fries in children's "Happy Meals" such as peeled apple slices with low-fat caramel dipping sauce. |
