McDonald's has been under the spotlight recently, as both customers and former employees share insights about the fast-food giant's iconic menu items and what they can expect when they order them. Questions about customer experiences have arisen, particularly surrounding one of its most famous burgers—the Big Mac.
According to TikTok user Mike Haracz, who identifies himself as a former corporate chef at McDonald's, the reason many customers find their Big Mac served lukewarm instead of hot is largely due to how it’s prepared and held before serving. Haracz addressed this concern raised by curious customers on social media. He explained, "So, it’s a variety of things. First of all, the Big Mac uses their 10 to 1 patties; those are not the ones cooked to order like the Quarter Pounder. They're held warm in the universal holding cabinet. While good restaurants discard these patties after some time, others may keep them longer to save costs."
For those who love burgers and crave them hot, Haracz clarified, “If you want a hot burger, you need to order the Quarter Pounder and eat it right away; otherwise, it’s going to taste like every other McDonald’s burger you’ve ever ordered.” He also pointed out the assembly of the Big Mac contributes to its lukewarm temperature. Ingredients like refrigerated pickles and ambient-temperature Big Mac sauce do not help and simply add to the temperature mediocrity.
These candid insights shed light on the factors influencing customer experiences at McDonald's. With the modern consumer’s rising expectations for food quality, many people are turning to social media to express their feedback and seek clarity on their favorites.
On another note, McDonald's is making headlines with exciting new collaborations. Recently, the fast-food chain announced its partnership with basketball star Angel Reese, who is known for her remarkable achievements both on and off the court. The partnership marks McDonald's first national meal collaboration with a female athlete, and it’s already generating buzz.
Starting on February 10, fans will be able to enjoy the new Angel Reese Special, which includes a BBQ Bacon Quarter Pounder, fries, and a drink—featuring what McDonald's calls their “gamechanger” Bold BBQ Sauce. This innovative sauce is expected to give the classic BBQ flavor profile. Reese, who shared her enthusiasm via social media, remarked, “It’s really a dream come true to be the first-ever female athlete to have my own meal and be part of McDonald’s amazing basketball legacy.”
Reese’s announcement was well-received by her peers, many of whom expressed their excitement and support on social media. The synergy between McDonald's and Reese suggests a deliberate move by the chain to appeal to younger audiences, especially as interest grows around women’s sports.
Meanwhile, cheeseburger lovers have another reason to rejoice. McDonald’s is reintroducing the Cheese Dunk, aiming to satisfy the cravings of cheese aficionados everywhere. Starting February 16, customers can choose from various ways to enjoy this melty treat: on its own or paired with classic cheeseburgers. Ada Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines' Chief Marketing Officer, noted, "We know there’s no such thing as too much cheese."
The Cheese Dunk allows for familiar meals to be transformed, making every bite of cheeseburger even more indulgent with warm, velvety cheese dip. Lazaro stated, “The Cheese Dunk is our answer to everyone who's ever wished they could double down on cheesy goodness.”
Encouraging fans to embrace their love for cheese, McDonald’s promises this offering will be available across all locations nationwide, providing various service options, including dine-in, takeaway, and delivery.
These developments come at a time when McDonald's has also made recent changes to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. The company announced plans to roll back some of its DEI aspirational goals, which has raised discussions both internally and externally about the direction of these initiatives. Such decisions could affect not only public perception but also internal employee dynamics.
Through high-profile collaborations and innovative food offerings, McDonald's continues attempting to capture public interest and reshape customer experience. Customers are encouraged to engage and voice their thoughts as the fast-food brand navigates these changes, aiming to strike the right balance between quality, flavor, and inclusivity.
Whether garnering critique or excitement, McDonald's remains firmly at the center of food conversations around the nation, maintaining its status as one of the most recognized global brands.