"Confidence is often an indicator of success, and one fast-casual brand is emanating poise in a highly competitive market -- YUM! Brands' Taco Bell (NYSE:YUM).

Taco Bell recently made news recently by boldly rejecting a partnership with both of the trending faux meat pioneers Beyond Meat (NASDAQ:BYND) and Impossible Foods. Meanwhile, Burger King, Subway, and Tim Hortons are hoping for a lucrative future with a meatless cash cow.

To meat, or not to meat, that is the question

The problem with participating in the meatless frenzy is that news is beginning to seep out that faux meat may be no more healthy than its beefy cousin. That's why Taco Bell seems to have made a wise and courageous decision.

Instead, Taco Bell is touting an in-house registered dietitian who focuses on making sure that its ingredients are free of additives, preservatives, artificial flavors and colors, high-fructose corn syrup, partially hydrogenated oil, and excess sodium. This seems a much better way to go when consumers are increasingly more discerning when it comes to nutritious choices at fast-casual eateries.

New leadership, new direction

There are more changes afoot at YUM! affecting its three brands, Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut. These changes underscore, and perhaps explain, the company's bold new strategies."

Read the full article by Caroline Banton here.

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