When it comes to fast food, few chains are as iconic as McDonald’s. With its golden arches and a menu that spans from Big Macs to McFlurries, it’s the go-to spot for a quick and familiar bite.
But what if the very people who know the ins and outs of the kitchen—the employees—are avoiding certain menu items?
Behind the counter, workers see what customers don’t: how food is prepared, how often machines are cleaned, and how fresh the ingredients really are. While most of the menu is perfectly safe and tasty, there are some items that staff members tend to steer clear of, often for reasons that might surprise you.
Whether it’s cleanliness concerns, freshness issues, or just an insider’s tip, these choices give a whole new meaning to the phrase “you are what you eat.”
1. McCafé Coffee
Employees often pass on McCafé coffee due to concerns about the cleanliness of the coffee machines. Machines are reportedly not cleaned as often as they should be, leading to the buildup of grime. One former worker described finding a fistful of black soot inside, which is far from appetizing.
Coffee brewed in these conditions may pass through dirty residue, making it unappealing for staff who know what’s behind the scenes.
This lack of regular cleaning means employees prefer to get their caffeine fix elsewhere. They know that cleanliness is crucial for good coffee, and opt for alternatives that they trust more. After all, no one wants their morning brew tainted by bacteria or unpleasant residues.
2. Anything with Sliced Tomatoes
Tomato aficionados, beware: the freshness of McDonald’s tomato slices is questionable at best. Insiders note that tomatoes are sometimes used past their prime, even with moldy parts trimmed away. Given tomatoes’ soft nature, this can lead to contamination below the surface.
Employees steer clear of these items, especially given the risk of eating borderline expired produce. They advocate for skipping any sandwich with fresh tomato slices if they’re concerned about quality control.
If you’re a fan of deluxe burgers, it might be wise to ask for them without tomatoes or choose another topping. Eating quality ingredients matters, and knowing this, employees opt out of questionable choices.
3. Filet-O-Fish
Although the Filet-O-Fish has a dedicated fan base, McDonald’s employees often avoid it due to freshness concerns. Because it’s not as popular as other items, this fish sandwich can sit for hours before being served.
When left to linger, the sandwich’s components, like the bun and fish patty, become unappealingly soggy and chewy. Even though you can request a fresh one, the risk of receiving a less-than-ideal product is high.
For workers in the know, freshness is key, and they’d rather avoid the Filet-O-Fish altogether. If you’re particular about your meals, it might be wise to steer clear unless you’re certain you’re getting a freshly made sandwich.
4. The McRib
The McRib may have a cult following, but employees often find its preparation and appearance unappetizing. Workers describe the frozen patty as looking unnatural, with one comparing it to a scab.
After cooking, the patty often soaks in barbecue sauce, which some staff find off-putting. This method results in a mushy, overly sauced product.
Despite the fanfare, employees prefer to skip the McRib. For those who value appearance and preparation, this sandwich might be best left for others to enjoy. Knowing the behind-the-scenes process can influence choices, and staff often decide it’s not worth the hype.
5. Sweet Tea
McDonald’s Sweet Tea might be a Southern staple, but employees are wary of its extremely high sugar content. The recipe calls for an astonishing amount of sugar, making it a less appealing option for health-conscious staff.
One worker disclosed that their location used around three pounds of sugar per container of tea. Despite this, some customers still requested extra sweetness.
For employees, this concoction is more sugar water than tea, prompting them to choose unsweetened beverages instead. Those looking to cut down on sugar know it’s best to avoid this drink.
6. Milkshakes
Delicious as they may seem, McDonald’s milkshakes are often skipped by employees due to hygiene concerns. The machines aren’t cleaned thoroughly each day, with deep cleans happening only twice a month.
This lax cleaning schedule leads to residue buildup, akin to icing sugar on surfaces. Knowing this, workers lose their appetite for shakes, opting for alternatives.
The idea that leftover mix might mix into new batches isn’t appealing. Employees who prioritize cleanliness will pass on milkshakes, seeking out drinks from establishments with more rigorous cleaning practices.
7. Chicken Nuggets
McDonald’s chicken nuggets are a hit with customers, but freshness concerns lead employees to avoid them. During off-peak times, nuggets can sit too long, losing their appeal.
Once fried, they’re kept in a heated tray, but timers aren’t always followed. Former employees admit to resetting timers to prolong tray life, compromising quality.
Dry, rubbery nuggets aren’t what insiders want, so they insist on fresh batches. Knowing the holding practices, staff choose fresher options or request newly made nuggets.
8. Any Soda with Ice
Even something as simple as a soda with ice can have hidden issues. McDonald’s staff often skip ice, fearing bacteria in under-cleaned ice machines.
Ice bins aren’t always cleaned as often as necessary, leading to mold and bacterial growth. The scoop, touched by many hands, adds to contamination risks.
Understanding these risks, employees prefer their drinks sans ice or choose bottled alternatives. They know that chilling doesn’t eliminate germs; it merely pauses growth.
9. The McFlurry
McFlurries might be a tempting treat, but the ice cream machine’s hygiene issues make employees cautious. Reports of dirty drip trays full of grime have made headlines.
Machines often remain constantly dirty, contributing to frequent breakdowns. This lack of cleanliness leads workers to question the safety of the soft-serve.
For those who value hygiene, McFlurries are best avoided. Knowing what’s behind the counter influences choices, and staff prefer desserts from places with better maintenance practices.
10. Small Patty Burgers (Big Mac, McDouble, etc.)
The small patties in some McDonald’s burgers, like the Big Mac, worry employees due to cooking concerns. Sometimes, these thin patties aren’t fully cooked before being served.
Workers have noted patties coming off the grill still red, then sitting in trays for hours. This raises quality and safety issues, prompting staff to avoid them.
For those who prefer well-done beef, these burgers aren’t the best choice. Employees opt for other options or ensure theirs are cooked thoroughly.
11. Anything with Fresh Eggs (Egg McMuffin, etc.)
The fresh eggs in McDonald’s breakfast items such as the Egg McMuffin pose concerns for employees. Eggs sometimes sit out unrefrigerated in warm kitchens before use, leading to potential safety issues.
Raw eggs shouldn’t be at room temperature for long, as they risk bacterial growth. Employees aware of this practice avoid fresh egg items, opting for pre-cooked alternatives.
Knowing eggs’ potential for contamination means staff make safer breakfast choices. Awareness of handling practices influences decisions on what’s suitable to consume.
12. Frappés and Smoothies (McCafé Blended Drinks)
McDonald’s frappés and smoothies might look inviting, but employees often skip them due to sanitation concerns. The blenders used aren’t always cleaned properly between orders.
Some workers report flavor cross-contamination and bacterial buildup. Even worse, reports of pests in machines deter staff from consuming these drinks.
Employees who know the importance of clean equipment pass on these sugary beverages. They opt for drinks made with care and cleanliness in mind.
13. Ketchup from the Dispenser
Grabbing ketchup from the dispenser might seem easy, but employees recommend reaching for packets instead. Dispensers aren’t always cleaned thoroughly, and old ketchup might be reused.
One crew member mentioned pouring old ketchup back into cleaned containers, leading to questionable freshness. Employees prefer sealed packets for guaranteed freshness.
Staff who understand these practices avoid dispenser ketchup, knowing it’s safer to use factory-sealed packets. Making informed choices about condiments ensures better quality, and workers prioritize freshness when it comes to their meals.
14. Grilled Chicken (Discontinued Item)
Though McDonald’s grilled chicken is no longer on the menu, it left an impression on employees. The chicken often sat too long, becoming dry and unappealing.
Due to low demand, pre-cooked filets lingered in warmers beyond their ideal serving time. This led to a texture reminiscent of burnt rubber.
Staff who preferred quality avoided grilled chicken, even when available. They understood that freshness impacts taste and chose fried options instead. When grilled chicken makes a comeback, the same caution might apply, with employees opting for options they can rely on.
15. Apple Pies
McDonald’s apple pies are a fan favorite, but employees know they’re not always served fresh. Pies are batch-cooked, then left to sit before sale.
After frying or baking, they rest to cool, then sit in warmers for extended periods. This leads to drying out and toughening of the crust.
Workers familiar with the pie process often skip them unless just made. Enjoyment comes from fresh food, and staff value quality over convenience.
Leave a comment