It’s hard to believe that we are already a week into 2014! As we settle into a brand new year, it is the ideal time to reflect on the year that we are leaving behind and here at fastfood.com we thought we should take a look back at some of the biggest innovations in the fast food industry over the past 12 months.
Wendy’s Pretzel Bacon Cheeseburger
When a fast food chain rolls out a new menu item it is always something of a gamble, especially when you are doing something as tricky as reinventing a classic like the cheeseburger. However, Wendy’s did exactly that in June 2013 when they launched the Pretzel Bacon Cheeseburger. This new take on a cheeseburger was an instant success. Not only does it feature a beef burger patty dressed with bacon, cheese sauce, honey mustard, red onion, tomato and lettuce, all of which is delicious on its own, but the standard bun has been swapped out for an artisan pretzel bun. This gives the burger a little something extra!
Burger King Rib Sandwich
There is something about the elusive McDonald’s Rib that fast food fans love, so it was certainly a smart move for Burger King to launch their own version, although it did initially come under fire as as a cheap knock off. However, while the Burger King version is cheaper, many say that is tastes more ‘real’ than the McRib and there is the added bonus of it being available all year round too. It may never achieve the cult status of its McDonald’s counterpart, but it does offer a more readily available alternative.
McDonald’s Egg White Delight
Back in March 2013, McDonald’s announced a major shake up of their breakfast menu which included the introduction of an egg white breakfast sandwich. The Egg White Delight features real egg whites cooked on a griddle, Canadian bacon and cheddar cheese all of which comes served on a wholegrain muffin. This makes it a much healthier alternative to the standard McMuffins that previously dominated the early morning menu.
Burger King Satisfries
In another turn towards healthier menu items, Burger King upped the stakes by reinventing the French fry. The new Satisfries, launched November 2013, are being hailed as the most cutting edge fast food innovation of 2013 thanks to some clever science! The crinkle cut fries contain considerably less fat and fewer calories than traditional fries. This is achieved by dipping each fry in a thin bater formulated to stop oil penetrating the potato during the frying process.
KFC Go Cup
With the pace of our lives becoming faster and faster, more of us are looking for more convenient ways to grab something to eat on the move. In answer to this need, KFC launched the Go Cup, an innovative packaging design which echoes the shape of the iconic bucket, but which fits in the majority of car cup holders. The cups can be filled with bite sized pieces of chicken, fries or potato wedges which can be easily plucked from the miniature bucket while driving.
Gluten Free Dunkin’ Donuts
With a growing number of people avoiding gluten either because of allergy or because they are choosing a gluten free diet like those popular amongst various celebrities there is a high demand for foods that do not contain gluten. Dunkin’ Donuts is the first fast food chain to introduce a gluten free donut which has given them an edge over their competitors.
Taco Bell Breakfast Menu
After successful trials of their breakfast menu, Taco Bell began to expand the menu nationwide. What makes this innovative when most other fast food chains already offer breakfast menus? Quite simply, the unique items on offer including the ‘waffle taco’ which consists of a taco constructed from waffle and filled with sausage, syrup and scrambled eggs. Other items include oatmeal and a yoghurt parfait.
Applebee’s Introduced Instant Payments
If there is one thing that infuriates customers when they go out for a quick bite to eat it is waiting for the waiting staff to come over with the check. However, Applebee’s are taking steps to eliminate this process by installing tablets in all restaurants. The installation is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2014. Customers can use the tablets to both place their order and pay their check. It is likely that this trend will be picked up by other fast food chains in time as it will save time and streamline the dining experience.