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Why Men’s Health Calls the Border America’s Worst Mexican Chain
When it comes to Tex-Mex chain restaurants, it’s easy to assume that they offer relatively healthy menu options. After all, many dishes are served with rice, beans and vegetables or salsa. However, Men’s Health magazine found a significant problem with one particular Mexican chain: On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina. In their list of the best and worst restaurant chains for finding healthy meal options, Men’s Health ranks On the Border as the worst in the Mexican chain category. So what exactly led to this unfavorable ranking? Let’s take a closer look at the reasons behind Men’s Health’s assessment.
The search for healthy options
Men’s Health gives preference to restaurant chains that offer healthy food choices or allow customers to customize their meals according to their dietary needs and preferences. Chipotle, for example, earned the title of Best Mexican Chain for its customizable approach, which allows customers to make informed choices and avoid excessive fat. On the other hand, On the Border falls short in this regard, despite its tasty food.
Calorie concerns
One of the main reasons On the Border has been labeled America’s worst Mexican chain is its tendency to offer high-calorie options. Men’s Health cites the Tres Enchilada Dinner as an example, which contains a staggering 1,600 calories. To put this into perspective, most people require between 1,600 and 3,000 calories per day, depending on various factors such as age, lifestyle, gender, and fitness level. Consuming 1,600 calories in a single meal is clearly excessive, especially for people with sedentary jobs and minimal exercise.
Men’s Health attributes On the Border’s unhealthiness to its use of breaded fish, fried tortillas, and creamy sauces, which are less nutritious than the healthier options readily available in Mexican cuisine. In addition, indulgent desserts such as the 1,340-calorie Border Brownie Sundae contribute to the chain’s high-calorie reputation.
A call for moderation
While Men’s Health criticizes On the Border’s menu offerings, the magazine does not advocate eliminating the chain from your dining options altogether. Instead, they suggest being more cautious and making smarter choices when ordering. For example, instead of the calorie-laden Tres Enchilada Dinner, Men’s Health recommends opting for a healthier alternative like “two soft tacos with a side of beans, vegetables, or both.” By making these substitutions, it is still possible to enjoy a satisfying meal at On the Border without compromising your health and waistline.
In summary, Men’s Health’s assessment of On the Border as America’s worst Mexican chain stems from its high-calorie offerings and the missed opportunity to offer healthier alternatives. While indulging in the occasional treat is perfectly fine, it’s important to be mindful of our food choices and strive for moderation. By making informed decisions and opting for lighter options, we can still enjoy the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine without feeling guilty or compromising our health.
Sources:
https://www.mashed.com/800863/why-mens-heath-called-on-the-border-americas-worst-mexican-chain/
FAQS
Men’s Health noted that On the Border earned this title due to its high-calorie menu options, particularly dishes like the Tres Enchilada Dinner, which packs a whopping 1,600 calories.
Why is On the Border’s menu being criticized when the food is so tasty?
While On the Border’s food may taste delicious, Men’s Health points out that the chain relies on breaded fish, fried tortillas, and creamy sauces instead of offering healthier alternatives more commonly found in Mexican cuisine.
What are the calorie recommendations for an individual’s daily intake?
Calorie recommendations vary based on factors such as age, lifestyle, gender, and fitness level. However, most people need between 1,600 and 3,000 calories per day.
How does Men’s Health suggest making healthier choices at On the Border?
Men’s Health advises customers to be more judicious in their menu choices. Instead of opting for high-calorie items like the Tres Enchilada Dinner, they suggest choosing alternatives like “two soft tacos with a side of beans, vegetables, or both.
Does Men’s Health recommend avoiding On the Border altogether?
No, Men’s Health does not advocate eliminating On the Border altogether. Instead, they suggest practicing moderation and making smarter choices when ordering so you can enjoy a satisfying meal without compromising your health and fitness goals.
What are the key factors contributing to On the Border’s unhealthy image?
On the Border’s unhealthy image is primarily due to its use of high-calorie ingredients, such as breaded fish, fried tortillas and creamy sauces, which deviate from the healthier options available in traditional Mexican cuisine.