Chipotle Mexican Grill was founded in 1993 in Colorado and expanded nationwide in 1999. Now owned by McDonald's, the casual, fresh Mexican eateries have over 950 locations in 30 states according to Hoover's. Given that the restaurants are usually found in urban retail areas, they are almost impossible to avoid. Understanding the nutrition facts for Chipotle can help you order wisely to support your weight goals.
Menu Features
Chipotle boasts fresh vegetables, natural meats, rBGH-free dairy products and some organic products on its burritos, tacos, chips and salsa, says the official website. You order at the counter for in-house or take-out dining. Food is prepared on-site and has "integrity"--meaning it comes from farms that respect the environment and animals. Locally and organically produced food is used whenever practical, says the official Chipotle website. Steve Ells, the founder and CEO, even testified before Congress in 2009 about the use of antibiotics and hormones in ranching.
Misconceptions
Fresh ingredients are a positive attribute of Chipotle's food, but it does not mean that the food is low in calories. A typical 1/4--lb. burrito can top 1,000 calories with just rice, beans and meat. Add in sour cream, cheese and guacamole to tack on another 370 calories and 31.5 g of fat.
Healthier Options
Select the "bowl" option, which features all the innards of a burrito without the tortilla to save the 290 calories in the burrito-sized tortilla. Order the three soft tacos on the menu with just chicken, salsa and fresh romaine lettuce on three, 90-calorie flour tortillas for a meal that comes in at just over 500 calories. If you are committed to the gigantic burrito, have just beans, salsa and meat for a 640-calorie meal. Leaving off the rice, sour cream and cheese saves you 350 calories. The Center for Science in the Public Interest suggests asking the preparer to cut your burrito in half and wrap them separately, to be enjoyed at two separate meals.
Considerations
Calories and fat are not the only things you should consider when ordering at Chipotle. Most of the burritos, tacos and bowls contain a high amount of sodium. According to the American Heart Association, you should consume 2,300 mg of sodium at the most daily. Eat one burrito at Chipotle and take in as much as 1,800 mg or more--over half of your daily recommended amount. If you are on a doctor-recommended low-sodium diet, dining at Chipotle may be very difficult.
Strategy
An occasional visit to Chipotle can fit into a weight-loss plan, but make sure your order fits into your daily calorie goals. On days that you do order from the restaurant, try to make your other meals lighter and home-cooked so you can control your other fat and calorie content. Never skip meals to save up for your visit, but consider lightening up your breakfast and snacks to make sure you do not take in too many calories overall. Add an extra half hour to your cardio workout to burn additional calories so you can afford the indulgence.
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