Burger King launches lower-fat French fries

Guilt-free French fries? Well, not quite. But Burger King claims its new French fries have 40 percent less fat and 30 percent fewer calories than McDonald’s fries.

The crinkle-cut fries, which are called Satisfries, also have 30 percent less fat and 20 percent fewer calories than Burger King’s own regular fries.

But do they taste like other fries? The Associated Press said they do. 

"Reporters were given a preview of the fries at a New York City hotel last week. Attendees were each served a carton of the fries that look and taste like any other fries, even leaving the familiar grease stains in their paper cartons," the AP reported. 

Burger King, the world's second largest hamburger chain after McDonald's, said the skinnier version of its French fries are made from the same potatoes, use the same oil and are cooked in the same fryers as its conventional fries.

The only difference — apart from the price, which is slightly higher than for traditional fries — is the proportion of the batter’s ingredients has been tweaked to ensure the fries absorb less oil.

Burger King launched the fries on Tuesday so it is too early to gauge their popularity.

But previous attempts to woo more health-conscious consumers by offering salads, oatmeal and smoothies on its menu have not turned into top sellers. 

McDonald’s does not appear too concerned about BK's move to offer lower-fat French fries. 

The fast-food giant issued a statement saying it remained focused on serving its “iconic” fries that customers love.