While organic and whole-food movements have grown substantially over the last decade, the fast-food industry remains a behemoth (worth over $500 billion worldwide). It’s wreaking havoc on American health.
Americans as a culture are addicted to government-supported quick fixes of factory-farmed meat, salt, sugar and chemical-laden food, with devastating results to health. Yet, despite anticipated expansion in foreign markets, growth has slowed.
Underneath this behemoth are the roots of healthier food trends, visibly affecting fast-food-choice behaviors by gaining market share. By offering healthier choices obtained on the go, fast casual’s quality and availability have allowed it to become a primary option for millions of Americans. Plus, these restaurants generally offer much more variety than their fast-food counterparts. That builds a significant edge, particularly among millennials who are demanding about quality and the social experience of eating out.
Two giants, Amazon and Walmart, are betting big on organics and cleaner food options. Globally, organic food sales are expected to post double-digit gains over the next several years.
Is this enough to stem the tide of fast-food toxicity plaguing our nation?
No. Their market share will be dwarfed by the traditional junk-food chains, who are best positioned to serve cheaper food for large portions of the population still suffering from low wages and no upward mobility. For example, McDonald’s impressive third-quarter earnings, which climbed 4.1 percent, were driven in large part by promotional campaigns for $1 beverages and 2-for-$5 deals.