Fast food is often seen as a convenient way to grab a quick meal, but not all items on the menu are worth ordering. Some items may seem tempting but are best avoided for both quality and health reasons. According to employees who have worked in popular chains, there are certain items you should steer clear of when you’re in the mood for fast food. Here are twelve menu items to skip the next time you’re at the drive-thru.
1. Fish Sandwiches
While seafood can be a healthy choice in some restaurants, it’s a different story in fast food. Fast food workers warn that fish sandwiches, like the Filet-O-Fish, are often among the least healthy options on the menu. The seafood served isn’t fresh, and it’s often been sitting out for a while before being served. If you’re craving fish, it’s better to go with something that’s regularly ordered by customers, ensuring it’s fresher.
2. Grilled Chicken Sandwiches at Burger Joints
At places known for their burgers, the grilled chicken sandwiches tend to be overlooked and sit around longer than other menu items. According to workers, these sandwiches often have a rubbery texture due to their prolonged sitting time. It’s best to skip these and opt for something more popular to guarantee freshness.
3. Freshly Ordered Fries
Many customers ask for freshly made fries, but workers advise against it. Not only can these take longer to prepare, but you’re often getting the same batch of fries that have been sitting under a heat lamp. Employees emphasize that if you’re looking for the freshest fries, it’s usually better to simply order as usual rather than request a special batch.
4. Tuna Salad
Tuna salad, while sounding light and healthy, often isn’t the best choice. Employees warn that it’s made in large batches, sometimes as far in advance as a week, and the tuna is pre-prepared. If you’re craving a salad, it’s better to choose one made with fresher ingredients that are put together on the spot.
5. Chili
Though chili might seem like a hearty option, it’s often made with leftovers from other menu items. For instance, the meat used in some chili is made from hamburger patties that have been sitting on the grill too long. These are then repurposed and added to the chili, which is then reheated. It’s a surprise for many customers who expect a fresh, wholesome meal.
6. “Secret” Starbucks Menu Items
A popular myth circulating among Starbucks customers is the existence of a “secret” menu, but in reality, it doesn’t exist. Employees explain that the so-called secret menu items are simply creative combinations put together by customers. If you want something different, it’s best to ask your barista for the ingredients directly, rather than expecting something off-menu.
7. Super-Sized Meals
The value menu might tempt you to order the largest size meal for just a bit more, but fast food employees advise against it. While the idea of getting more food for less money seems appealing, employees warn that eating a massive portion of fried food is likely to leave you feeling sluggish and uncomfortable afterward.
8. Mac and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese may seem like a comforting meal, but when it comes from fast food chains like Panera, it’s often pre-made and microwaved. According to employees, the best menu options are those that are freshly made, like sandwiches and salads. If you’re craving mac and cheese, it’s better to make it at home for a more satisfying and homemade experience.
9. “Fresh” Chicken Nuggets
Many customers request fresh chicken nuggets, but employees reveal that unless you specifically ask for them to be made fresh, they’ve likely been sitting in a heated container. It’s common practice for the timer to be reset instead of making a new batch, meaning the nuggets could be sitting around for a while before they’re served.
10. Garnishes and Pickles
Those seemingly innocent garnishes and pickles may not be as fresh as they appear. Fast food workers caution against eating these, as they are often reused if not eaten by previous customers. In some cases, uneaten coleslaw or garnishes have been taken off plates and served again. It’s best to skip these items for hygiene reasons.
11. Paninis at Night
If you’re ordering from a fast food chain that serves paninis or other fresh items, timing is key. Employees suggest avoiding these items late at night when demand is lower. These items take longer to prepare, and as a result, may not be as fresh as they would be during busier hours.
12. Gimmicky “Artisanal” Items
Some fast food chains try to sell items as “hand-crafted” or “artisanal,” but employees warn that these options aren’t always as special as advertised. These items may come with a few extra toppings or a slightly different twist, but in reality, they aren’t made with higher-quality ingredients than the regular menu items. Save your money and stick with what you know works.
Conclusion
While fast food is undeniably convenient, some menu items aren’t worth your time or money. By avoiding these 12 items, you’ll be making smarter choices when it comes to your next fast-food run. Whether it’s skipping the overhyped “fresh” fries or opting for something more substantial than a tuna salad, there are plenty of better options available. Stick with fresh, popular items, and you’ll leave the drive-thru feeling much better about your meal.
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