Unhealthiest fast food breakfast options

To uncover the truth about the healthiest and unhealthiest fast-food breakfast choices, we started by identifying the top ten fast-food chains in the USA using Foody Data. After this initial step, we discounted any chains that did not offer a breakfast menu, leaving us with seven contenders. We then analyzed the breakfast menu for each chain, excluding combo deals and drinks. Our data was sourced directly from the official websites of each fast-food chain:

• McDonald's
• Subway
• Taco Bell
• Burger King
• Dairy Queen
• Wendy's
• Starbucks

Now, let's dive into the findings and explore America's healthiest and unhealthiest fast-food breakfast options!

It's not good news for Subway fans, as two of the top three items with the highest calorie count are taken by their footlong sandwiches, surpassing the 1000-calorie mark. Of course, they offer a 6-inch option for those with smaller appetites. However, the top spot for the unhealthiest breakfast item is claimed by the McDonald's Big Breakfast® with Hotcakes. It might be iconic, but it packs a whopping 1,340 calories – and as the recommended daily caloric intake for an average U.S. citizen is between 2000 to 2500 calories per day, that’s potentially over half of your daily calorie intake.

What's equally striking is the number of burpees needed to burn off these excessive calories, with the leader demanding a whopping 1126 burpees – a formidable physical challenge. Reports vary on how long that would take but suffice it to say plenty of fitness fans online consider the 1,000 Burpee Challenge a serious trial.

Wondering what made the top of the list? Here’s the top 20 items to avoid if you’re wanting a lighter bite for breakfast:

The top 20 unhealthiest breakfast items

Unhealthiest breakfast items by chain

When looking at the highest-calorie items by chain, classic favorites like McDonald's and Subway's breakfast sandwiches take the lead. Here's a breakdown:

• McDonald's: Big Breakfast® with Hotcakes (1340 calories)
• Subway: Bacon, Egg & Cheese footlong (1050 calories)
• Taco Bell: Cinnabon Delights® 12 Pack (1010 calories)
• Burger King: Double Sausage, Egg, & Cheese Croissan'wich (882 calories)
• Dairy Queen: Country Platter with Ham (860 calories)
• Wendy's: Breakfast Baconator® (710 calories)
• Starbucks: Bacon, Sausage & Egg Wrap (640 calories)

On the flip side, let's talk about the healthier breakfast options that won't leave you feeling in need of a serious mid-morning nap. Hash browns and lighter options like Starbucks’ Egg Bites or even Burger King’s pancake platter take the spotlight for being kinder to your waistline, without sacrificing taste – although Subway’s healthiest option would still need you to fit in 378 burpees to burn off the calories.

The healthiest breakfast options at each chain

Clearly, when you swing into the drive-thru for your morning snack, there are plenty of options that are hidden calorie bombs requiring a truly heroic number of burpees to burn off. On the other hand, there are lighter choices that won't leave you feeling weighed down for the rest of the day. Whether you opt for indulgence or moderation, now you have the facts to make informed choices for your morning meal.

Remember, breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it's up to you whether you want to start it with a sprint or a leisurely stroll. So, the next time you find yourself at a fast-food joint in the morning, you'll be armed with the knowledge to make a breakfast choice that suits your appetite and health goals.

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