McDonald's menu in India is significantly different to align with local cultural, religious, and dietary preferences, featuring no beef or pork products and a massive focus on vegetarian options. Key adaptations include substituting traditional beef with chicken and, notably, creating a dedicated vegetarian menu (e.g., McAloo Tikki, McSpicy Paneer) to cater to a large vegetarian population.
McDonald's introduced an entirely new range of products designed specifically for the Indian palate. Items like the McAloo Tikki Burger, Paneer Wrap and Masala Grill Chicken Burger catered to local tastes. These were fully localised recipes that resonated with Indian consumers.
Why is the McDonald's menu different in different countries?
We try to adapt our menu to reflect different tastes and local traditions for every country in which we have restaurants. We're keen to respect cultural differences and so every country has its own policy of developing menu items.
Why is there no beef or pork in any McDonald's in India?
Did you know that Indian McDonald's doesn't serve beef burgers? This is because the majority of Indians are Hindu, and Hinduism considers cows to be sacred animals. McDonald's India has been respectful of this cultural sensitivity by not serving beef in any of its restaurants. Subscribe for more insights.
What McDonald’s Menu Items Look Like Around The World
What is the McDonald's controversy in India?
The FDA accused McDonald's of deceptive practices related to the use of cheese substitutes in its items. It suspended the licence of a McDonald's outlet in Ahmednagar, saying that its investigation found that the fast food chain was using cheese analogues or proprietary foods instead of cheese.
We learnt that Halal certified food is popular with only a very small percentage of our customers, and to offer it in all our restaurants would require significant changes to our kitchen procedures and supply chain. As a result, we decided against offering Halal food in the U.K. for the time being.
The potatoes we use are fresh and locally sourced. McDonald's Fries are fried in 100% vegetable cooking oil – making every single fry crispy, soft, evenly salted, and golden. Mindful INDULGENCE, the Real Food, Real Good way!
Out of countries surveyed, Turkey has, hands-down, the unhealthiest McDonald's food, with an overall amount of saturated fat for the three items totaling 22.2 grams—about a third more than either of the runner-ups. Mexico came in second at 14.02 grams and New Zealand placed third with 13.48 grams.
Both companies entered India in the 1990s and have expanded their operations. A survey found that 60% of respondents were non-vegetarian. For taste, 70% preferred KFC, while McDonald's was seen as more hygienic and providing a better dining environment. Both companies are considered economical options.
KFC's brand is ranked #130 in the list of Global Top 1000 Brands, as rated by customers of KFC. Their current valuation is $32.95B. McDonald's's brand is ranked #85 in the list of Global Top 100 Brands, as rated by customers of McDonald's. Their current valuation is $167.91B.
The Big Mac essentially has a 100% beef meat patty. That's the kind of image McDonald's has portrayed for the Big Mac world over. But since most Indian regions are sensitive towards beef consumption, McDonald's had to only restrict itself to other meats like chicken or mutton.
Five Guys has by far the least healthy fries in our study, while KFC is the fifth least healthy, with significantly fewer calories and lower saturated fat than Five Guys fries. French Fries have high salt and fat levels, which can tip an already unhealthy fast-food main into the danger zone.
McDonald's is widely regarded as the number one burger brand in India, known for its extensive menu, consistent quality, and strong presence across the country.
Some McDonald's food items are so popular that they've become a core part of fast food culture. But, the chain's menu also includes some duds, and the item that's reportedly ordered the least of all is hot tea.
The complainants state that their complaint to the UK NCP was prompted by a July 2023 BBC report of widespread sexual harassment in the respondent's restaurants in the UK, including specific allegations of abuse experienced by employees in McDonald's UK stores [footnote 3].
We set ourselves high standards across all our restaurants and with our suppliers. As part of our commitment to maintaining these standards, we work closely with the Halal Food Authority, who accredit and regularly audit our Halal restaurants.
