In May, Panera Bread issued a “No No List” of ingredients it had stripped or would toss from its recipes.

Photo: Panera Bread

In April, Chipotle became the first national restaurant chain to remove all genetically modified ingredients from menu items served at U.S. locations.

Photo: Chipotle

In May, Noodles & Company said it would cut artificial ingredients from its menu and focus its brand awareness efforts on cooked-to-order, non-processed ingredients.

Photo: Instagram/Noodles & Company

In April, Maggiano’s said it would debut its first standalone gluten-free menu. Items include cheese ravioli and flourless chocolate cake, pictured here.

Photo: Ron Ruggless

In March, Dunkin’ Donuts said it would stop using nanoparticles in powdered sugar, bowing to consumer demand but disagreeing with a perceived potential for harm.

Photo: Dunkin' Donuts

In March, McDonald’s said it would stop selling chicken treated with human antibiotics in the U.S., in response to consumer demands for transparency.

Photo: McDonald's

In January, Pizza Hut became the first national quick-service chain to offer pizza certified gluten-free by Gluten Intolerance Group.

Photo: Instagram/Pizza Hut

In January, Taco Bell said it had reduced sodium across its menu an average of 15 percent over five years.

Photo: Taco Bell

In December 2014, Carl’s Jr. introduced an All-Natural Burger made of grass-fed, free-range beef raised without added hormones, antibiotics or steroids.

Photo: Carl's Jr.

In September 2014, Chipotle said it would roll out Sofritas, its vegan tofu-based menu item, in 9 more states.

Photo: Chipotle

In September 2014, Dunkin' Donuts introduced almond milk as a nondairy option at most U.S. locations.

Photo: Dunkin' Donuts

In July 2014, Taco Bell introduced a Cantina Power menu line that emphasized protein. Pictured here is the Cantina Power Grilled Chicken Bowl.

Photo: Taco Bell

In April 2014, casual-dining chain Houlihan’s introduced antibiotic-free chicken and organic greens.

Photo: Instagram/Houlihan's

In February 2014, Boston Market said it reduced the sodium content in core items including mashed potatoes, stuffing, cornbread, gravy, meat loaf. Pictured here is the fast-casual chain's cornbread.

Photo: Boston Market