The latest in extreme foods has hit New Zealand's shores followed by the expected outcry from health professionals.
KFC's Double Down, with a whopping 604 calories, went on sale yesterday and while Bay of Plenty fast food lovers weren't queuing to buy it, the bun-less burger certainly sparked some controversy.
Local dietitians and
nutritionists say the burger is a poor food choice and do not recommend eating it.
They say people should be wary of eating a burger that is a "massive portion" of their daily energy needs.
But KFC stands by its latest offering saying Kiwis had shown a hunger for it and have been calling for it to hit our shores since it went on the menu in the United States and Canada a year ago.
KFC's general manager pointed out that the burger, which is made up of two chicken breasts, bacon and cheese, actually has fewer calories than many others on the market.
Those against the burger believe it is irresponsible of KFC to have something on the market when New Zealand is struggling with obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
Obesity in this country continues to rise with more than a quarter of the adult population considered obese. This can lead to more serious diseases including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and even cancer - placing huge strains on our health system.
Promoting unhealthy eating goes against everything the Ministry of Health is doing to improve nutrition and increase physical activity.
But it comes down to personal choice and moderation.
The Government could close down every fast food joint in New Zealand and people would still make unwise lifestyle choices. You don't have to go to KFC, or any other takeaway outlet, to eat unhealthy food - the same type of food can be created from ingredients bought at the supermarket.
And no one is saying go out and eat a Double Down for lunch every day.
It is up to the individual to decide what they will eat and to ensure they include enough exercise in their daily life to balance any excesses.
We cannot enforce exercise regimes and healthy food on people - we can only provide them with the knowledge they need to make the right lifestyle decisions.
