Kids LiveWell Initiative Brings Healthier Kids' Meals to 15,000 Restaurants
By: Marissa Brassfield
Published: July 13, 2011

Over 15,000 restaurants -- including 19 different chain restaurants -- will roll out healthier kids' menus as a part of the Kids LiveWell initiative. The wellness-focused plan was created by Healthy Dining and the National Restaurant Association, and includes strict nutritional criteria that emphasizes lean protein, vegetables and fruits, low-fat dairy and whole grains.
All approved meals in the Kids LiveWell initiative will be denoted on the restaurant's menu with a red apple. A full meal -- entree, side and beverage -- must contain no more than 600 calories and feature at least two food groups. Of those 600 calories, no more than 200 can come from the side item.
The restaurants taking part in the Kids LiveWell initiative include Chili's, Burger King, Denny's, Joe's Crab Shack, Outback Steakhouse, Sizzler, Friendly's, IHOP and Cracker Barrel. Are you pleased with the initiative?