In a significant menu overhaul that has sparked considerable controversy, McDonald's has confirmed it will remove the vast majority of its vegetarian offerings from UK restaurants starting next week. The decision, attributed to persistently poor sales of meat-free meals, will see several popular items permanently discontinued.
Which Items Are Being Removed?
The fast-food giant is axing a suite of plant-based products, leaving many loyal vegetarian customers feeling abandoned. The items set to disappear from counters nationwide include:
- Veggie Dippers
- Veggie Dipper Happy Meals
- Spicy Veggie Wraps
- The Vegetable Deluxe sandwich
This sweeping cutback means the only dedicated vegetarian or vegan item remaining on the core menu will be the McPlant Burger. McDonald's has stated that this particular product continues to enjoy solid popularity and will remain a staple choice for customers seeking plant-based alternatives.
Company Statement and Customer Backlash
A spokesperson for McDonald's addressed the changes, stating: 'We're always listening to our customers to help inform and evolve our menu. While McPlant remains a firm fan favourite and will continue to be the go-to choice for our vegetarian and vegan customers, we recognise these changes may be disappointing for some.'
The spokesperson added that the company is 'actively learning from other markets to understand which vegetarian and vegan options are proving most popular and exploring exciting new offerings.'
However, this explanation has done little to placate disappointed vegetarians. Jennifer Powell, a 32-year-old customer, expressed her frustration to The Sun, saying she feels 'treated as an afterthought.'
'As a non-meat eater, I'm genuinely shocked,' she said. 'We are being targeted. McDonald's obviously no longer wants us as customers. Quite why a considerate, modern firm based on every high street is now treating vegetarians like an afterthought and a nuisance is a mystery. They clearly view us as second-class citizens, and I will be rethinking my fast food choices.'
New Additions and a Major Collaboration
While scaling back vegetarian options, McDonald's is simultaneously reintroducing one meat-based favourite and launching a high-profile promotional partnership. The company confirmed the return of the Chicken Big Mac to menus. Furthermore, an announcement regarding new Pizza Mozzarella Dippers is expected imminently.
Coinciding with the menu news, McDonald's unveiled a major new limited-time collaboration with Warner Bros, centred on the iconic television franchise Friends. Starting February 3rd, customers purchasing a Big Mac, 9 McNuggets, or a McPlant meal will receive a collectible figurine of one of the six main characters: Ross, Chandler, Joey, Rachel, Phoebe, or Monica.
The partnership extends to new themed packaging across the restaurant chain. A new dip named 'Monica's Marinara' will be introduced. Chicken Shareboxes and Chicken McNuggets Shareboxes will feature packaging adorned with Joey and the New York skyline, while McCafe cups will receive a Central Perk-themed makeover, immersing customers in the world of the beloved sitcom.
The juxtaposition of cutting core vegetarian items while investing in a lavish entertainment collaboration has only intensified criticism from those who feel the brand is deprioritising dietary inclusivity in favour of marketing spectacle.
