Nutritionists Crown In‑N-Out’s “Protein‑Style Double‑Double” as the Healthiest Menu Choice

Why the Protein‑Style Double‑Double Tops the List

In a study released this week, dietitians evaluated every item on In‑N-Out’s nationwide menu to identify the lowest‑calorie, lowest‑fat option. The analysis, conducted by a panel of registered nutritionists, singled out the „Protein‑Style Double‑Double” as the healthiest order. The findings were compiled in July 2026 and apply to all 350‑plus In‑N-Out locations across the United States.

Researchers compared each burger, fry, and shake against standard dietary guidelines, focusing on calories, saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars. The Protein‑Style Double‑Double, which replaces the bun with lettuce, eliminates cheese, and omits sauce, contains roughly 480 calories, 12 grams of saturated fat, and 800 milligrams of sodium—well below the chain’s typical offerings. By contrast, the chain’s milkshakes, even the smallest vanilla, exceed 600 calories and contain more than 30 grams of added sugar, disqualifying them from the „healthy” category.

The nutritionists highlighted the lettuce wrap as the key factor that reduces carbohydrate load and overall calorie count. „Removing the bun cuts nearly 150 calories and eliminates a significant amount of refined carbs,” explained Dr. Maya Patel, a clinical dietitian who participated in the review. The double‑patty configuration still provides 32 grams of protein, supporting muscle maintenance without excessive fat.

Can In‑Out’s Shakes Ever Be Considered Healthy?

In‑N Out’s signature sauce, a blend of ketchup, mayonnaise, and relish, adds hidden sugars and fats. By ordering the burger „protein‑style” and asking for sauce on the side, diners can further control intake. The panel also noted that the chain’s fresh‑cut fries, while appealing, add roughly 400 calories per serving and should be limited for those seeking a low‑calorie meal.

Milkshakes remain the menu’s biggest nutritional challenge. Even a small chocolate shake delivers over 600 calories, 30 grams of sugar, and 20 grams of saturated fat. „Shakes are essentially dessert drinks; they’re not designed for health‑conscious consumers,” said nutritionist Luis Ortega. The panel suggested that if In‑N Out ever introduced a low‑fat, low‑sugar version—perhaps using fruit puree and skim milk—those could become viable options. Until then, the shakes are excluded from any „healthy” recommendation.

The study’s release may influence menu choices for health‑aware patrons and could prompt In‑N Out to expand its low‑calorie offerings. Nutritionists hope the findings encourage diners to request modifications, such as lettuce wraps and sauce on the side, to make classic fast‑food items more nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Protein‑Style Double‑Double healthier than a regular Double‑Double? Replacing the bun with lettuce removes about 150 calories and reduces refined carbohydrates, while the double patties still supply ample protein.

Are In‑N Out’s fries ever a low‑calorie option? A standard serving of fries contains roughly 400 calories and high sodium; they are best limited or shared.

Could In‑N Out introduce a healthier milkshake in the future? Nutritionists say a shake made with low‑fat dairy and natural fruit could lower calories and sugar, but no such product currently exists.