The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), Washington D.C.-based consumer group, reviewed the nutritional information on entrees, appetizers, desserts from 225 popular chain restaurants, and announced its 7th annual Xtreme Eating Awards. The awards are given to the most calorie-laden, artery-clogging chain restaurant meals in America.
"You'd think that the size of their profits depended on their increasing the size of your pants," CSPI Executive Director Michael Jacobson said of the industry's Xtreme Eating winners.
Xtreme Eating winners for 2013 include:
Johnny Rockets: Bacon Cheddar Double Burger (1,770 calories) with sweet potato fries and a Big Apple Shake (3,500 calories)
The Cheesecake Factory: Crispy Chicken Costoletta (2,610 calories), Bistro Shrimp Pasta (3,120 calories)
Maggiano's Little Italy: Veal porterhouse (2,710 calories), Chocolate Zuccotto Cake (1 slice -1,820 calories)
Smoothie King: 40 oz. large size Peanut Power Plus Grape Smoothie (1,460 calories and 22 teaspoons of added sugar)
IHOP: Country Fried Steak & Eggs (1,760 calories)
Uno Chicago Grill: Deep Dish Macaroni & 3 Cheese (1,980 calories)
Chili's: Full rack of baby back ribs with Shiner Bock barbecue sauce (1,660 calories)
CSPI made the awards to raise awareness of excessive calories, saturated fat, sodium consumption and support for healthier and lighter options at chain restaurants.
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute recommends that women consume between 1,800 and 2,200 per day and men consume between 2,200 and 2,800 calories each day.
The U.S. government's Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that women consume no more than six teaspoons of added sugars per day and that men consume no more than nine teaspoons of added sugars per day.
