The Healthiest Fast Food Trends of 2007

Even though fast food doesn't come close to a home cooked meal, there are times when convenience and price overrule at the dinner table. While it shouldn't be a diet staple in any household, more and more fast food restaurants are offering healthier meal options and more choices than ever before. 2007 witnessed a few health-conscious trends including low calorie salad dressings, vegetarian burgers, fitness-oriented meal combos (think Subway sandwiches with yogurt), and a number of alternatives to the greasy burger of fried chicken sandwich. As 2007 draws to a close and our need for creative fast food continues on into 2008, here's a look back at just a few of the top trends this past year:

Elimination of trans fats. With America's commitment to healthier fried food and oils in cooking, restaurants and fast food manufacturers are slowly shifting toward healthier oil choices by using the 'right' fats and higher quality ingredients. Burger King jumps on board with its nationwide launch in July 2007, and Dunkin Donuts dumps the fat in August.

Toasted subs. Classic subs at Arby's, Subway, and other sub shops received a makeover with a choice of toasted bread and melted cheese as an alternative to cold cuts on plain bread. The emergence of gourmet sandwiches was a part of this trend, making low fat choices much more palatable.

Yogurt and granola bars as a side. Subway and McDonald's continued to make health-conscious fast food lovers happy with meals that include yogurt, granola bars, and fruit cups instead of chips or a cookie.

Quick service goes gourmet. Chains including Panera, Atlanta Bread Company, and other quick service restaurants feature gourmet lines and even more options for European-inspired creations. Low fat dressings and healthy veggies offer more variety for that healthy lunch.

Soy and green tea at Starbucks. Starbucks has been stocking soy milk for years now, but this year showed even more interest in the dairy substitute. The result was more drinks flavored and mixed with soy, and an emphasis on green tea frozen drinks over the summer.