A Detailed Look at the Triple Big Buford Combo
For many fast-food enthusiasts, the Triple Big Buford combo from Checkers and Rally's is a feast designed for a serious appetite. However, its sheer size means a substantial calorie intake. To accurately assess its impact, it is necessary to examine each component of the meal individually.
The Burger: Triple Big Buford
The star of the show is the Triple Big Buford, a triple-decker burger featuring three seasoned, all-beef patties, two slices of melted American cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, and mayo on a toasted bun. Its hefty ingredients pack a significant punch. According to nutritional data from Checkers and Rally's, the burger alone accounts for:
- 1010 calories
- 78g of total fat
- 2250mg of sodium
It is important to note that these figures can vary slightly depending on the condiments used, but they provide a solid baseline for the main component of the meal. The high calorie and fat content are primarily due to the three beef patties and the generous amount of cheese and mayonnaise.
The Side: Medium Fries
No combo is complete without a side of the famous seasoned fries. For a medium order of fries, the nutritional information adds a substantial amount to the total meal. Based on data from CalorieKing, a reliable nutrition reference source, the medium fries contribute:
- 500 calories
- 24g of fat
- 1110mg of sodium
This single side dish adds over 50% more calories to the already calorie-dense burger, highlighting the impact of add-ons in a fast-food meal.
The Drink: Medium Soft Drink
The final component is a medium soft drink. The calorie count here is the most variable part of the combo, depending on the specific beverage chosen. For instance, a medium Coca-Cola typically adds approximately 200 calories to the meal. Other sugary sodas or sweetened iced teas will have similar effects. Opting for a diet soda or water would drastically reduce the total calorie count. For a typical estimate, we will use the approximate 200 calories for a medium soda.
Putting It All Together: The Total Combo Calorie Estimate
By summing the calorie counts of each component, we arrive at a comprehensive estimate for the entire Triple Big Buford combo:
- Triple Big Buford Burger: 1010 kcal
- Medium Fries: 500 kcal
- Medium Soft Drink: ~200 kcal (approximate)
- Total Estimate: ~1710 kcal
This number represents a significant portion of an average person's daily calorie needs, which are typically between 2000 and 2500 kcal. It is crucial for consumers to be aware of such figures, especially if they are monitoring their dietary intake.
Nutritional Comparison: A Look at the Buford Burger Family
Understanding the Triple Big Buford's nutritional profile is easier when compared to its smaller siblings within the Checkers/Rally's menu. This table breaks down the differences.
| Item | Calories | Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Triple Big Buford Burger | 1010 | 78 | 2250 |
| Big Buford (Double) | 770 | 57 | 1730 |
| Cheeseburger | 390 | 28 | 930 |
From the table, the caloric jump from a double to a triple patty is substantial, along with significant increases in fat and sodium. This highlights how an extra patty can dramatically alter the nutritional profile of a burger.
Making More Mindful Choices
If you still crave the hearty taste of a Big Buford but want to moderate your calorie and fat intake, there are several simple strategies:
- Choose the smaller option: Opt for the regular Big Buford (the double) instead of the triple version to save over 200 calories. The Single Checkers/Rallyburger is an even smaller option at 390 calories.
- Downsize your side: A medium order of fries is 500 calories; a value size is only 260 calories. Another option is to skip the fries altogether and just enjoy the burger.
- Be smart about your drink: Choosing a zero-calorie drink, such as water or a diet soda, can save you an average of 200 calories or more depending on the size and type of beverage.
For more information on making balanced dietary choices, the American Heart Association's Eating Plan offers comprehensive guidance.
Conclusion
The Triple Big Buford combo is a high-calorie, high-fat meal that constitutes a large percentage of a daily diet for most adults. The total calorie count, including the burger, medium fries, and a standard soft drink, is estimated to be around 1710 kcal. By understanding the individual components and making small adjustments, such as downsizing or changing your drink, you can enjoy a more balanced meal without sacrificing the taste entirely. Being mindful of these nutritional facts is key to making informed decisions about your fast-food consumption.
