Applebee's International Completes Transition to Zero Trans Fat Oil

Business Wire, May 17, 2007

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. -- Responding to its guests' growing interest in health and nutrition, Applebee's International, Inc. (Nasdaq:APPB), the world's largest casual dining restaurant concept, announced today that its 1,800-plus domestic restaurants have completed the transition to zero trans fat frying oil.

Applebee's began an aggressive program to find replacement oils three years ago. As a result, its restaurants have changed to a new frying medium, a blend of two soybean oils that does not compromise the taste, texture or quality of food.

"After extensive testing with our guests, we found that our foods cooked in zero trans fat oil still have the great taste our guests have come to expect from Applebee's. In some cases, the oil even enhances the flavor of menu items," said Dave Goebel, president and chief executive officer.

Applebee's foresight and commitment to offering a zero trans fat menu has put the restaurant chain well ahead of schedule for meeting the new health regulations in New York City.

"We're pleased we made this transition well in advance of the New York City requirements, but this change did not happen overnight," said Zane Tankel, who owns and operates Applebee's restaurants in the city. "We constantly talk with our guests, and in the past few years many told us they liked the idea of changing to zero trans fat cooking oils as long as they could still enjoy our food. Our guests tell us the long, hard work we put into this was well worth it."

In addition to completing its transition to zero trans fat frying oil, Applebee's also is only weeks away from completing the transition to a zero trans fat pan and grill oil. Additionally, the company is working with food suppliers to convert or replace the few remaining processed foods with trans fats.

Applebee's provides its guests with a variety of great-tasting, healthier choices. Since 2004, Applebee's has offered Weight Watchers menu items with the points, calories, fat and fiber content listed on the menu. The menu features a diverse lineup of dishes, including Teriyaki Steak & Shrimp Skewers, Tortilla Chicken Melt, Steak & Portobellos, Cajun Lime Tilapia and Chocolate Raspberry Layer Cake.

Children also have healthier choices too. Instead of French fries, they can choose a side of veggies and dip, apple sauce or steamed broccoli to complement their kid's meal entree. Every kid's meal also comes with a choice of milk or soda.

"At Applebee's, it's all about choice," Goebel said. "Our guests indicated they wanted healthier entrees and side dishes so we responded by offering a range of great-tasting, healthier alternatives and by converting to zero trans fat frying oil. We will continue to listen to our guests to serve the meals they crave."

About Applebee's

Applebee's International, Inc., headquartered in Overland Park, Kan., develops, franchises and operates restaurants under the Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar brand, the largest casual dining concept in the world. As of April 29, there were 1,937 Applebee's restaurants operating system-wide in 49 states, one U.S. territory and 16 international countries. Additional information on Applebee's International can be found at the company's website (www.applebees.com).