Key Highlights
- Multinational fast-food chain McDonald’s addresses a “human meat” rumor about its burgers.
- The company has made recent improvements to its burgers, including softer buns and juicier patties.
- McDonald’s faces increased competition in the burger market from better-burger concepts.
- Company CFO reports strong customer response to the improved “Best Burger” offerings.
The Human Meat Myth Debunked: McDonald’s Responds
Multinational fast-food giant McDonald’s has faced a bizarre rumor that its burgers contain human meat. It’s not just some internet nonsense, but a persistent urban legend that pops up every now and then. Let’s clear the air, shall we?
According to Instagram influencer Snackolator, “Clearly, this is wrong for multiple reasons.” So, let’s go over them real quick.
First off, people test meat for ingredients. If there were humans in there, wouldn’t we know by now? Not always.
At least, that’s the plan. It’s a silly idea that comes somewhere between a conspiracy theory and an obvious joke.
Making Burgers Better
McDonald’s has been making some noticeable improvements to its burgers in recent years. In 2023, the company announced small but tasty upgrades to its Big Mac, McDouble, and classic Cheeseburger. They’ve introduced softer, pillowy buns that are freshly toasted to a golden brown, perfectly melted cheese, juicier patties, and even more of their famous Big Mac sauce.
McDonald’s CFO Ian Borden reported during the chain’s first-quarter 2024 earnings call, “Our delicious burgers were featured across many markets this quarter as we continued to showcase our strength in beef with a consistent approach to improving our fan favorites.” Early results were promising, with improved customer satisfaction and taste scores.
Facing Increased Competition
While the company is making these improvements, it’s not just about enhancing its own offerings. McDonald’s faces increased competition from better-burger concepts that focus on premium ingredients. According to Darren Tristano, Technomic Executive Vice President, “Raising the quality of the protein, bun, toppings and sides has been a winning formula.” Many full-service chains have gotten in on this action by adding gourmet burgers to their menus.
McDonald’s is also feeling pressure from quick-service burger chains that are raising the quality of their offerings. Consumers place a premium on the quality of their burger: 74% rank the quality/taste of the meat or protein as the most important part of the burger.
Achieving Success with Improvements
Despite the competition, McDonald’s has been pleased with the rollout of its “Best Burger” improved burgers. The improvements were clear: the new cooking technique made the burgers more flavorful and juicy. According to Amy Reiter from the Food Network, “The new moist, shiny, puffy, golden, buttery-tasting toasted buns are light-years better than the old ones, which is especially important in a sandwich with three bun sections.”
McDonald’s has also addressed a wild rumor about using human meat.
On its website for Middle East restaurants, the company stated, “We do not have any human meat in our burgers. We would like to assure you that we only use 100% pure, Halal beef and chicken in our food.” The company sources its beef from BRF in Abu Dhabi and chicken from McFood in Malaysia.
While the rumor persists, McDonald’s is focused on improving its offerings and staying competitive. The key is quality and customer satisfaction. If you’re still worried about human meat, rest assured it’s just a silly rumor.
