(PCM) Who knew Boston Market was so health-conscious?
In an effort to provide healthier options for guests, Boston Market has removed salt shakers from tables inside all 476 of the chain’s locations, though customers can still get their hands on the shaker if they so choose. The idea is that if customers have to get up from their food to find a salt shaker, they will most likely try their meal first and realize they don’t need any extra salt. But they aren’t puttingthat much confidence in the average customer: the restaurant has also committed to reducing sodium levels in all food items by 15 to 20 percent by the end of 2014.
“As a consumer myself, I too have seen the headlines about the impact sodium can have on our health,” said George Michel, CEO, Boston Market. “By removing salt shakers from Boston Market tables, we hope to raise awareness of salt intake, without completely eliminating the option, to those who dine in our restaurants. Today, we are publicly committing to further reduce sodium from menu items while still delivering the great taste for which Boston Market is known.”
According to Reuters, Boston Market is also the first restaurant company to become a national strategic partner with the USDA’s MyPlate program. They also have a lighter menu of Meals Under 550 Calories, which offers more than 100 combinations of entrees and side dishes. Next year, the restaurant plans on putting their soups, sandwiches, and salads on a diet, too.
“Beyond our 2014 commitments, we recognize that the salt content of our soups and sandwiches needs attention as well,” said Sara Bittorf, chief brand officer, Boston Market. “This announcement and the announcements to follow are a promise to our guests to deliver wholesome foods they can feel good about sharing with their families.”
This may not earn Boston Market many new dedicated customers, but it can certainly help out the millions who already are: On average, Boston Market sells 48 million servings of its signature rotisserie chicken, 24 million servings of its mashed potatoes, and 21.6 million servings of its macaroni and cheese each year.
Nice move Boston Market!
Related:
10 Healthy Fast Food Choices Under 350 Calories
getty images