A major food chain has sent gym-goers into an absolute frenzy after dropping the highest-density protein burger in the country.
The new Grill’d ‘Protein Pro’ burger packs a whopping 81 grams of protein – more than double what you’d find in a standard meat-and-cheese burger at any typical fast-food outlet.
The move comes as Aussies continue to gravitate towards health-conscious food choices, particularly in the wake of the viral ‘proteinmaxxing’ trend currently dominating TikTok and Instagram.
The monster burger retails for $23 and comes with double grilled RSPCA Certified chicken breast, crispy bacon, tasty cheese, cos lettuce, tomato, Spanish onion, avocado, relish, and herbed mayo.
But the secret weapon behind the protein contents is actually it’s gluten-free bun made from whole food ingredients including almonds, eggs, and coconut that delivers nearly 16 grams of protein before you even add the patties.
The spotlight on gluten-free alternatives comes in the wake of the recent Sopha Dopha Sydney Aiport drama, which sparked a national conversation about just how difficult it can be to find safe, gluten-free fast food while out and about.
Alongside the Protein Pro, Grill’d has also dropped two other high-protein, allergy-friendly options including the ‘Super Nourished’ chicken burger hitting at over 50 grams of protein, and the grass-fed beef ‘Powerhouse’ burger delivering 40g of protein.
Julian Dunne, Chief Marketing Officer at Grill’d, said the protein-heavy menu addition has been one of the most sought-after items the chain has ever dropped.
“The High Performance range launch has been one of our most successful menu launches in recent years,” Mr Dunne said.
“Our high protein burgers are all selling well above target, with double digit growth across the category.
“The Protein Pro in particular with 81g of protein has been our bestseller and is selling well above expectations.”
‘Need to try immediately’
Fitness and wellness influencer Lily Bowman, who boasts over one million followers, went viral on TikTok in a video where she was seen literally running to Grill’d to try the new range.
She was filmed biting into the burger with widened eyes, as fans quickly flocked to the comments section to weigh in.
“That looks outstanding,” one person wrote.
Others chimed in to say they couldn’t wait to try the new menu for themselves.
Another popular fitness creator, Lex Bell, took to Instagram to share that the burger had exceeded all of her expectations.
“We got the goods!” she shared in a video. “It’s time to taste test.”
“Oh my gosh. I’m going straight in. Wow, that is incredible,” she exclaimed.
“If you’re someone that struggles to hit a protein goal, this is going to be your new little hack.
“Literally doesn’t get better than that,” she said.
The new menu is now available in Grill’d restaurants across the country.