Del Taco's Turkey Tacos Leading Movement Toward Healthier Versions Of Popular Items

Jeremie Bohbot

LOS ANGELES , January 29, 2014 (Off The Menu) – Del Taco’s new Turkey Tacos isn’t just another limited-time healthy product that's completely different from the rest of the menu. Instead, the restaurant chain is heading a movement toward enticing health-conscious consumers by offering healthier versions of popular items.

According to food research firm Technomic, 47% of Americans say they want healthier restaurant options, but only about 23% actually order them. What does this data tell you? For one thing: Apple slices and yogurt parfaits just aren’t selling! McDonald’s actually said last May that salads make up no more than 3% of its sales. And second: Consumers want healthy fast food, but the current options simply aren’t filling that need.

That’s what makes Del Taco’s Turkey Tacos such a brilliant new addition. Here’s a healthier menu option—the tacos have 33% less fat and are made with ground turkey instead of ground beef—that’s similar to one of its mainstay items: tacos. It’s a product that tastes and looks similar to a popular item, with the added benefit of being better for you.

For consumers, what’s not to like? They get the tacos they crave while at the same time cutting calories. It’s a literal win-win.

The fast food industry is struggling to penetrate the health-conscious segment. Del Taco may have just found a way.

Nevin Barich is the Food and Beverage Analyst for Industry Intelligence. Email him here or follow him on Twitter here.

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