Several franchises for sale which have recently emerged are exploring a new market niche: fast food offerings that are not only healthy but also taste delicious. And here they are and what they offer:

O’Naturals

The prime mover of this company is its founder and chairman, Gary Hirshberg, who is also president and CEO of Stonyfield Farm, a yogurt manufacturer. O’Naturals was established along the same philosophy that Stonyfield yogurts are being made, that is of solely using natural and organic ingredients. The ingredients in O’Naturals’ menu contain no preservatives or additives. They also don’t have artificial sweeteners, flavors, and coloring. In-store nutritional information is provided in all of O’Naturals fast food offerings.

Furthermore, selections for customers on restricted diets, e.g., gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, etc., are also highlighted. Patrons are informed on what their food contains as all of the ingredients for each menu are listed on cards at the line. The items in the O’Naturals’ menu include build-you-own-sandwich/salad, featured tossed salads/ flatbread, sandwiches, flatbread pizzas, a selection of Asian noodles, soups, natural fountain soda, and Stonyfield Farm organic smoothies. O’Naturals currently operates four company-owned stores inNew England. Two franchise opportunities are being finalized outside this region.

Salad Creations

This is one fast food franchise venture that has really taken off. Salad Creations already has nine locations inFlorida,Virginia,Ohio,Rhode Island, andMexico. One of these is company-owned store the rest are franchised stores. In these outlets, customers can create their own salad from a choice of over 40 ingredients consisting of farm fresh fruits, vegetables, newly sliced meats, cheeses, and more than 15 homemade salad dressings. Each customer’s order is prepared by specially trained salad chefs who can help customize the servings to each individual’s preference.

Blendz

Customization of salads or smoothies is also the growth driver for outlets under the Blendz Franchise System, Inc. The company’s founder, president and CEO, Matt Phipps says that they don’t claim their food as healthy but healthier, allowing customers the option to make it as healthy as they want. The choices in Blendz menu include not only create-your-own-salad with 15 different toppings and dressings each day, and choices of greens. Also in the list are featured salads, gourmet soups, fresh squeezed juices, and grilled Panini. Blendz has four company-owned locations and one franchised outlet. Another corporate store and two franchisees are also under development.