The timeless adage that food is medicine receives a contemporary twist as salad chain Sweetgreen unveils a groundbreaking new menu crafted specifically around the principles of longevity. This initiative arrives at a critical juncture, with over 70 percent of the American food supply now classified as ultra-processed, leading many consumers to prioritise artificial additives over scientifically validated, whole foods.
A Collaboration Rooted in Science
In a significant partnership with Dr Mark Hyman, a renowned longevity expert and founder of Function Health and the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, Sweetgreen has introduced five innovative bowls. These dishes emphasise crucial dietary components including iron, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and sustained energy release.
Dr Hyman, who co-designed the menu, explained the philosophy behind the collaboration to the Daily Mail. "It's based on foundational biological principles: supporting steady energy, metabolic balance, and overall health through thoughtfully chosen ingredients people recognise and genuinely crave," he stated. He further challenged conventional wisdom, adding, "It confronts the notion that eating well necessitates sacrifice, demonstrating instead that food can be both profoundly nourishing and deeply satisfying."
Premium Ingredients and Nutritional Profiles
The menu's cornerstone ingredients feature antibiotic-free salmon, grass-fed chicken, and steak, complemented by a vibrant array of vegetables such as broccoli, cucumbers, carrots, and pickled onions. Each bowl is meticulously calibrated, ranging from 590 to 810 calories and boasting up to 34 grams of protein and 80 grams of carbohydrates.
During the launch, Dr Hyman elaborated on the meticulous selection process. "Food is a powerful signal we send to our bodies. It's information," he remarked. "Every ingredient on this menu was thoughtfully selected based on nutrient principles, and decades of medical insight, with a deep respect for real ingredients. The result is food people genuinely crave that also supports how the body functions."
Putting the Bowls to the Test
The Daily Mail's health team conducted a thorough evaluation of the new offerings: the Spicy Reset Bowl, Nutrient Power Plate, Iron Boost Bowl, Steady Energy Bowl, and The Omega Salad.
The Omega Salad
This bowl includes antibiotic-free miso-glazed salmon, avocado, shredded carrots, chickpeas, cucumbers, cilantro, baby spinach, chopped romaine, and a lime cilantro jalapeno sauce. Containing 640 calories, 30g of protein, 27g of carbs, and 44g of fat, it provides over half the daily protein requirement for a sedentary 150lb individual. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and avocado, these healthy fats are known to lower blood pressure, triglycerides, and inflammation, thereby reducing risks associated with heart disease, dementia, and arthritis.
The Iron Boost Bowl
Featuring antibiotic-free, grass-fed caramelised garlic steak, spicy broccoli, shredded cabbage, tomatoes, almonds, golden quinoa, organic arugula, and lime cilantro jalapeno sauce, this bowl delivers 615 calories, 36g of protein, 31g of carbs, and 40g of fat. The steak is a prime source of iron, a vital mineral for hemoglobin production and oxygen transport. Testers noted the salad was fresh with a pleasant spicy kick, though some found the steak slightly dry and the almond portion modest.
The Steady Energy Bowl
Designed to prevent energy crashes, this bowl contains antibiotic-free roasted chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, spicy broccoli, cilantro, pickled onions, white rice, shredded kale, and Green Goddess ranch. With 590 calories, 32g of protein, 56g of carbs, and 29g of fat, its sweet potatoes provide potassium, B vitamins, and fibre to stabilise blood sugar. One reviewer described it as a "generous" portion with a unique flavour combination that left them feeling full and satisfied.
The Spicy Reset Bowl and Nutrient Power Plate
The Spicy Reset Bowl, with antibiotic-free blackened chicken, avocado, cabbage, apples, chickpeas, and nori sesame seasoning, offers 720 calories, 33g of protein, 62g of carbs, and 37g of fat. Its apples contribute antioxidants to combat cellular damage. The Nutrient Power Plate is the most substantial option at 810 calories and 80g of carbs, featuring blackened chicken, sweet potatoes, broccoli, chickpeas, and almonds. Its complex carbs from wild rice and quinoa are formulated to support sustained energy and focus without causing blood sugar spikes.
Consumer Impressions and Market Positioning
Priced between $14 and $17 at a Manhattan location, the bowls align with typical office lunch costs in the area. Testers reported feeling fuller for longer, avoiding afternoon energy slumps, and experiencing minimal post-meal bloating. One editor noted, "I felt genuinely good about what I ate. The bowl seems to have a really good nutrient profile where a lot of fast casual places are lacking."
While the Omega Salad, Nutrient Power Plate, and Spicy Reset Bowl are available in-store, for pickup, and via delivery, the Iron Boost Bowl and Steady Energy Bowl remain online exclusives. This launch represents a concerted effort to bridge the gap between convenient dining and scientifically-backed nutrition, promoting the idea that optimal health can be both accessible and delicious.
