Innovative brands offer fresh, healthy and quick meals for the health-conscious consumer.

A healthy diet is one of the keys to a long, productive life. According to Statista, 50% of Americans claim that they are actively trying to eat healthy. But busy lifestyles often get in the way of eating right. At one time, fast food restaurants only offered greasy burgers and fat-laden fries. But times have changed.

From fresh Mexican and Mediterranean to juice bars and salad franchiseshealthy food concepts have sprung up with menus that include gluten-free items and more to cater to a variety of dietary lifestyles. These franchise businesses allow customers to eat a quick meal without guilt and they give entrepreneurs the opportunity to operate a community-centric, feel-good business.

Below, we take a look at notable innovators that have tapped into the business of healthy living.

Maha Juice Bar

Maha Juice Bar founder and CEO Marcieli Pastorio (above) set out to nourish and enrich communities across the U.S. by offering all-natural juices, healthy smoothies and acai bowls. Growing up in Brazil, she had access to fresh fruits and was disappointed by the juice offerings in the U.S. “Many companies add chemicals and sugar to their juices. That’s just not acceptable to me. At Maha Juice, we don’t compromise quality. We don’t use powders, ice, or chemicals. We don’t cut corners. We have been given nature’s finest ingredients and don’t mess around with that,” she told FranchiseWire.

Southern Steer Butcher

To bring back the personalized service and wholesome charm of local butcher shops, entrepreneur Greg Snyder (above) founded the Southern Steer Butcher franchise in 2013. The unique butcher shop franchise appeals to foodies who crave high-quality meat and convenience. “Southern Steer is more than a store. It’s an experience with hand-to-hand service. Coming into our shops elicits emotions of community and home,” he said in an interview with FranchiseWire.

In addition to meat sales, franchise owners also generate revenue through meal-prep classes and retail offerings. Not only do participants in these classes know where their food comes from and how to prepare it, but they also get to know their local butcher.

Pita Pit

The Pita Pit Mediterranean food franchise offers healthy, made-to-order pita sandwiches. While the brand does not claim to adhere to every guideline of the Mediterranean dietPita Pit incorporates many ingredients and techniques that contribute to its heart-healthiness, including fresh vegetables; whole grains such as quinoa; healthy fats including avocado oil; and the use of herbs and spices to boost flavor.

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