The revelation centers around an ingredient used in the beloved fast-food chain's fries, which have long been considered a straightforward and uncomplicated menu option.
In a TikTok video, Mike Haracz, a former corporate chef at McDonald's, shares his recipe for recreating the iconic McDonald's fries at home.
He emphasizes the importance of the cooking process to achieve the authentic taste. Starting with "great value thin-cut French fries," Haracz provides step-by-step instructions to his followers.
But Haracz reveals the shocking ingredient that takes everyone by surprise throughout this tutorial. To get the unique flavor of their fries, he admits that McDonald's adds seasoning made from beef to their fryer oil.
Upon examining the comprehensive list of ingredients provided on the official McDonald's website, the revelation regarding the inclusion of a particular ingredient is indeed confirmed.
The ingredients listed for McDonald's fries include potatoes, vegetable oil (comprised of canola oil, corn oil, soybean oil, hydrogenated soybean oil, and natural beef flavor derived from wheat and milk), dextrose, sodium acid pyrophosphate (used to maintain color), and salt.
It is important to note that the natural beef flavor utilized contains hydrolyzed wheat and hydrolyzed milk as initial ingredients.
The revelation about the ingredients in McDonald's fries has generated a variety of responses on social media platforms, with TikTok being a prominent platform for discussions.
Some find it humorous, particularly those who had encountered vegans who consumed McDonald's fries unknowingly
On the other hand, there has been a sense of disappointment expressed by others. Questions have been raised regarding the necessity of incorporating beef flavoring into the frying oil.
Critics argue that such an addition may not be essential for achieving the desired taste, given that many other fast-food chains offer vegetarian or vegan-friendly fries without compromising on flavor.
Well, I just discovered why the fries hurt my stomach really bad… I'm allergic to beef, one user said.
I had a friend who was a vegetarian he would only get fries at McDonald's. he didn't believe me when I told him the fries were cooked in beef juice, the second said.
Lolz, it's beef flavoring and not vegan because of the milk products involved. Kinda obvious since they got away from beef tallow years ago but want to keep close to the same taste ( the old fries were superior), another wrote.
What? The fries aren't made from potatoes and cooking oil anymore? someone asked.
A fortunate distinction can be made for consumers in the UK when it comes to McDonald's fries.
Unlike their counterparts in other regions, McDonald's fries in the UK have a composition that excludes wheat or milk derivatives.
This particular formulation makes them a safe and viable option for both vegetarians and vegans in the country.
This revelation brings a sense of relief to individuals following these dietary preferences, as they can enjoy McDonald's fries without any concerns about the inclusion of animal-derived ingredients.