Burgers Are Kings After All!

Despite the recent drive to stigmatize fast food like hamburgers and offer up more healthy choices, millions of Germans continue to consume the greasy delights of big American chains. No numbers of statistics or shocking docu-films seem to change that.

And taken in a broader perspective, the trend might not be so disastrous, according to a new report by “Stiftung Warentest,” Germany’s consumer protection organization. It seems hamburgers are not as unhealthy as their much maligned reputation. Hard to believe, right?

A cross test of 19 varieties of burgers show that in terms of taste, looks, smell, flavor, consistency and of course nutritional value, the beef patty could actually constitute part of a healthy meal. That’s of course if a few rules are kept in mind. (Ah, yes, the never-ending warning to moderation.)

When eaten on a regular basis or combined as part of an XL menu, hamburgers have too much fat, cholesterol and too few vitamins to make them an ideal choice of diet staple. Nevertheless, when the craving strikes, go ahead and order the beef patty, or better yet a cheeseburger.

With just 11 grams of fat, 15 grams of protein and 248 calories, McDonalds’ cheeseburger topped the list of healthy choices. When combined with a salad and a small portion of fries and a non-sweated drink, the meal is well-balanced and nothing the dietary police would frown upon.

Just don’t be fooled into thinking that because a chicken is leaner than a cow, that chicken products are better for you. Burger King’s chicken supreme with its 570 calories and 28 grams of fat tipped the scale as the most unhealthy choice of fast food. Overall, chicken meals got considerably worse health ratings than the beef alternatives, which have less fat and considerably less salt.