An Australian fitness coach has ignited an international health debate after making a surprising claim about his preferred protein snack. Melbourne-based trainer Louie Riitano declared he would choose a KFC Zinger Fillet Piece over a conventional protein bar any day of the week.
The Viral Protein Claim
Louie Riitano, founder of online coaching business FIT FOCUS, shared his controversial opinion in a video that has since amassed over 300,000 views. The trainer boldly stated that KFC has been 'gatekeeping the protein snack of the century' and urged viewers to reconsider their snack choices.
'Simply trade up your protein bar for a basic Zinger Fillet, which has 21 grams of protein and only ten grams of fat,' Riitano explained in his social media post. 'That's more protein than your average protein bar. And it's chicken. And it's KFC!'
Nutritional Comparison Sparks Discussion
According to official nutritional information from KFC Australia, a single Zinger Fillet Piece (95g serving) contains 21g of protein, 10.5g of fat, and 7.8g of carbohydrates. Riitano argues that many protein bars contain similar or worse macronutrient profiles, along with artificial ingredients.
'When you look closer at the ingredients in some of these protein bars, you'll find an assortment of chemicals and preservatives,' the coach told Daily Mail. 'People get too caught up in consuming protein bars or supplements, and demonise eating fast food - when in fact, some fast food options are a better alternative.'
Mixed Reactions From Health Community
The controversial suggestion has divided health-conscious consumers, with many praising the practical approach while others remain sceptical.
Supporters highlighted both taste and financial benefits, with one commenter noting: 'A Zinger fillet's probably cheaper than a protein bar.' Riitano himself responded: 'Saving money and getting anabolic benefits.'
However, critics questioned the nutritional mathematics. One detractor countered: 'The protein bar you're holding has 18.2g of protein and 4.7g of fat. So you want another 2.8g of protein for another 5.3g of fat? The maths ain't mathin'.'
Others raised concerns about convenience and social acceptability, with the most-liked comment reading: 'Yeah, not sure I can whip out a Zinger Fillet in my 9 o'clock team meeting.'
Several respondents also humourously noted the challenge of visiting KFC without indulging in additional menu items, questioning whether anyone could realistically order just a single fillet.
Riitano clarified that his video wasn't advocating for regular fast food consumption, but rather encouraging consumers to critically examine snacks marketed as protein-rich health foods.
