Unmasking Sonic's Unhealthiest Item
Fast-food restaurants are not typically praised for their health-conscious menus, and Sonic Drive-In is no exception. With its extensive menu of burgers, dogs, and signature frozen treats, there's plenty of temptation for anyone looking for a quick and indulgent meal. However, a closer look at the nutritional information reveals that some items are far more unhealthy than others.
The Large Oreo Peanut Butter Master Shake
The consensus among nutrition experts and reports is that the Large Oreo Peanut Butter Master Shake is the most unhealthy single item on the Sonic menu. This is due to its extremely high calorie and fat content, as well as its massive sugar load. Combining rich real ice cream with peanut butter, Oreos, whipped cream, and a cherry creates a beverage that could easily substitute for an entire day's worth of calories for some individuals. A single large shake contains: 1,720 calories, 48 grams of saturated fat, and 52 grams of added sugar.
Other Notorious Offenders
While the Master Shake claims the top spot, other Sonic items are also significant contributors to an unhealthy diet. These items are often laden with high levels of fat, sodium, and refined carbohydrates, making them a poor choice for regular consumption.
High-Calorie Entrees
- SuperSONIC® Bacon Double Cheeseburger: This is a heavy hitter, combining multiple beef patties, bacon, and cheese into a single meal. The calorie count can easily exceed 1,000, and it is packed with saturated fat and sodium.
- SuperSONIC® Breakfast Burrito: A morning meal that starts the day with an overwhelming dose of calories, fat, and sodium, often before the day has even properly begun.
- Footlong Quarter Pound Coney: This extra-long hot dog smothered in chili and cheese is a classic indulgence, but it's also a significant source of saturated fat and sodium.
Shockingly Unhealthy Sides
- Large Onion Rings: Though often ordered as a side, a large order of Sonic's onion rings contributes a substantial amount of calories and fat to any meal, largely due to the frying process.
- Large Mozzarella Sticks: This fried cheese appetizer is high in both calories and saturated fat, offering very little nutritional value despite its savory appeal.
Indulgent Dessert and Drink Options
Beyond the infamous Oreo Peanut Butter Master Shake, the entire frozen zone at Sonic is a minefield of high-calorie and high-sugar choices. The various Master Blasts and other large shakes often contain more calories, sugar, and saturated fat than an entire meal, making them a significant health hazard when consumed frequently.
Nutritional Comparison: Sonic's Best vs. Worst
To put the most unhealthy items into perspective, here is a comparison table highlighting the nutritional differences between a few of Sonic's most and least healthy options. Note that nutritional information can vary slightly based on customization and location.
| Item | Calories | Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Sugar (g) | Key Issue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Large Oreo Peanut Butter Master Shake | 1,720 | 94 | 1,000 | 180 | Extremely high calories, fat, and sugar |
| SuperSONIC Bacon Double Cheeseburger | 1,170 | 83 | 1,950 | 12 | High saturated fat and sodium |
| Large Onion Rings | 890 | 45 | 1,020 | 1 | Excessive calories and fat for a side |
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich | 450 | 18 | 910 | 9 | A healthier, lower-fat alternative |
| Jr. Burger (plain) | 350 | 18 | 490 | 6 | A more moderate, lower-calorie burger option |
Making Healthier Choices at Sonic
If you find yourself at Sonic but want to avoid the most unhealthy options, here are some tips:
- Opt for Smaller Portions: Many items, especially shakes and sides, come in multiple sizes. Choosing the smallest size can significantly reduce your calorie and sugar intake.
- Focus on Grilled Options: Items like the Grilled Chicken Sandwich offer a much lower fat and calorie count compared to their fried or beef-based counterparts.
- Customize Your Order: You can often remove or substitute high-calorie ingredients. For example, asking for no mayonnaise or extra cheese can make a big difference.
- Rethink Your Drink: Instead of a high-sugar slush or shake, consider a diet drink, water, or unsweetened iced tea. Sonic is famous for its customizable drinks, so you can often find a zero-calorie option with flavorings.
- Be Mindful of Toppings: Extras like chili, cheese, and heavy sauces can quickly add hundreds of calories and grams of fat to an otherwise reasonable meal.
Conclusion
While many items on the Sonic menu are high in calories and fat, the Large Oreo Peanut Butter Master Shake is the undeniable winner for the title of what is the most unhealthy thing at Sonic. This dessert alone provides more than half of the recommended daily calories for many people, alongside extremely high levels of saturated fat and sugar. By being aware of these nutritional landmines and opting for smarter, more moderate choices, you can still enjoy a meal at Sonic without completely derailing your health goals. Sonic's full nutrition guide is available on their website for those who wish to review the details further.
