Dunkin' Donuts Helps Fight Obesity, Introduces Healty Menu

July 31, 2008 11:51 a.m. EST

New York, NY (AHN) - Dunkin' Donuts has given in to pressure by health advocates to offer more healthy items on their menu. Beginning Aug. 6, the popular donut chain will add on its offerings two new flatbread sandwiches below 300 calories and 9 grams or less of fat.

Called DDSmart, the sandwiches will be made of egg white and will offer two fillings - turkey sausage or vegetable. The DDSmart menu will feature items with 25 percent less calories, sugar, fat or sodium and have ingredients that are nutritionally beneficial.

Will Kussell, president and chief brand officer of Dunkin' Donuts, said it will include a multi-grain bagel and blueberry muffin with less fat content. He added the company will spend several million dollars to market the new menu.

Fast food chains like Dunkin' Donuts are feeling pressure exerted by health groups and the government to help battle the growing menace of obesity by offering healthier meals.

Last week the Los Angeles City Council announced it will prohibit new fast food restaurants to open in the city for one year.