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DALLAS, Dec 09, 2003 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- Atkins-plan dieters who are TGI Friday's fans won't have to bypass the restaurant chain.
The U.S. casual dining chain has joined up with the proponents of low carb foods, Atkins Nutritionals, to develop low-carb alternatives for the chain's 523 U.S. restaurants, according to USA Today.
Nineteen percent of TGI Friday's regular diners are currently following the Atkins diet plan, according to the two companies. Low carb appetizers, entrees and desserts will join the mainstream and often fattening main menu dishes.
With around 65 percent of all Americans overweight or even obese, restaurants are looking for ways to attract those anxious to trim fat. The number of Americans who are at least 100 pounds overweight has quadrupled since 1986.
Sales of all low-carb products are expected to pass $15 billion this year, USA Today reports. About 50 million Americans have at least tried a low-carb diet such as Atkins.
Copyright 2003 by United Press International.
