INSIDE OUR
QUICK SERVICE
RESTAURANTS 2024
Several quick service restaurants have demonstrated some improvements in nutrition-related policies and practices. However, much stronger action and clearer reporting of nutrition-related practices are needed.
Most companies acknowledged health and nutrition issues in their corporate strategies.​ However, many did not have strong targets or detailed reporting of progress.​
The majority of companies commit to display kilojoule labelling on in-store menu boards across all states and territories. Some companies commit to provide kilojoule labelling on third-party food ordering apps and their own company food ordering apps.
Several quick service restaurants reported taking some steps to make menu items and ingredients healthier. However, no companies disclose their progress in detail as part of routine, public reporting.
The industry self-regulatory code for marketing to children of unhealthy foods was updated to apply across all companies, however this code still falls far short of recommended best practice, with inadequate monitoring and compliance processes.
Priority recommendations for the quick service restaurant sector
Healthy food sales targets: Set company-wide targets to increase the proportion of sales from healthier menu items
Marketing to children: Reduce the exposure of children (aged up to 18) to the marketing of unhealthy products and brands, including ceasing sponsorship of sporting events/teams and providing toys in unhealthy children's meals
Make existing products healthier: Publicise targets for reducing nutrients of concern and ensuring appropriate portion sizes, and routinely report on progress with reference to government targets
Introduce healthier menu items: Introduce healthier sides and drinks, and make healthier options the default in meals​
Price incentives: Use price-related promotions and loyalty bonuses exclusively to incentivize healthier selections, whilst limiting incentives for unhealthy menu items​
Clearer nutrition labelling: Provide easily accessible, readable and comprehensive nutrition information for all menu items and meals in-store, online and on food ordering/delivery apps​
Lobbying practices: Actively support evidence-based, government policies and initiatives on nutrition, including refraining from lobbying activities that oppose or delay public health initiatives ​
