McDonalds offering 'healthier' Happy Meals

The number of overweight children in the US has doubled in the past 20 years. The Centers for Disase Control says the number of overweight teenagers has tripled. <br><br>Some people have resorted to

Thursday, December 18th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

The number of overweight children in the US has doubled in the past 20 years. The Centers for Disase Control says the number of overweight teenagers has tripled.

Some people have resorted to "suing" fast food restaurants, for having too much fat on their menus.

The world's largest fast food chain now offers healthier choices to its youngest customers. McDonalds selected Tulsa and two other cities to test its new "Happy Meal" menu items.

For the next three months, kids can choose between soft drinks, milk and pure juice products and substitute sliced apples with caramel sauce for french fries.

So far the healthier choices are a big hit with children. "mmm, they're just delicious." "Giving children choices."

McDonald's has recently beefed up its website, www.mcdonalds.com, offering information on calories, fat content and sodium in every menu item.