KFC is taking a unique step in promoting wellness by partnering with the sleep wellness company Hatch to address sleep issues through a new initiative that features the soothing sounds of fried chicken.
Sleep is a critical part of our lives, yet many struggle to achieve a good night’s rest. Insufficient sleep is a major concern in the U.S., leading to an annual economic loss of up to $411 billion. Globally, 62% of adults report that they do not sleep as well as they would like, with financial stress and work-related pressures being the primary culprits.
In an unexpected move, KFC is stepping in to help. The restaurant chain has introduced a content channel called “Kentucky Fried Chicken Rain,” inspired by the ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) trend, which uses calming sounds to help people relax and fall asleep.
Rinee Shah, Executive Creative Director at Hatch, explained, “We heard a rumor that the sound of falling rain resembles that of frying chicken. We decided to explore this idea and create something fun that might help people rest better.”
Catherine Tan-Gillespie, KFC’s U.S. Chief Marketing and Development Officer, added, “While our iconic blend of herbs and spices is known for its taste, who would have thought the sound of frying chicken could also aid sleep?”
The Kentucky Fried Chicken Rain channel is available on Hatch+ and can be accessed through Restore 2 smart sleep devices.
Eric Pallotta, CMO at Hatch, stated, “We take pride in creating effective sleep audio. After seeing the connection between frying chicken and rain on social media, we knew we had to collaborate with KFC.”
While KFC explores this new wellness avenue, it’s important to consider the impact of fast food on sleep. High-fat meals can lead to acid reflux and heartburn, especially if eaten close to bedtime. Additionally, foods high in sodium can disrupt sleep by increasing thirst and causing frequent bathroom trips during the night. High sugar content can prevent deep sleep, and spicy seasonings can raise body temperature, making it harder to rest.
KFC is committed to improving its menu’s nutritional value while still providing satisfying meals. The company has published a Nutrition Progress Update for KFC UK and Ireland, showcasing its efforts to enhance transparency and reformulate menu items. Notable changes include the reformulation of fries, which has removed 13 billion calories annually, and the elimination of full-sugar Pepsi from the menu. KFC is also introducing healthier options like rice boxes and salads.
As KFC navigates this transition from fast food to wellness, it aims to provide not only tasty meals but also support for better sleep.
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