Happier Meal? McDonald’s removing artificial preservatives from classic menu items

McDonald’s says it’s eliminating some unpalatable ingredients, such as artificial preservatives, from its popular menu items.

Some of the changes include introducing Chicken McNuggets without artificial preservatives and phasing out high-fructose corn syrup from its burger buns, according to the Associated Press.

It’s the latest move from the fast food industry, which has been trying to appeal to the health-conscious consumer for years.

Becca Harry, a representative for McDonald’s in the United States, didn’t immediately respond when the wire agency asked which artificial preservatives are being removed.

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It’s unclear if these changes will make their way north of the border, Canadian spokespeople have not yet respond to Global News for clarification either.

In April, McDonald’s said it was trying out a new Chicken McNuggets recipe in 140 different locations in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

“These new Chicken McNuggets are made with a simpler recipe that parents can feel good about while keeping the same great taste they know and love,” spokeswoman, Michelle Yao, told Global News in an email.

READ MORE: Here are the 19 ingredients that go into McDonald’s French fries

Fast food companies are desperately trying to adapt to consumers’ tastes.

Last year, McDonald’s pulled out all the stops: breakfast sandwiches made with egg whites, salad and fruit side dishes, chicken wraps packed with cucumbers – the first time the vegetable made its way onto any menu item served at the golden arches.

In 2015, Wendy’s dropped soda from its kids menus in the U.S., but this measure was already in place in Canada.

READ MORE: How fast food tried to get svelte in 2014

By then, McDonald’s, Subway, Arby’s and Chipotle had already removed sugary pop from their offerings to kids.

Now drink options include one per cent white or chocolate milk, bottled water and juice.

With files from the Associated Press

carmen.chai@globalnews.ca
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