The long-awaited meat-free vegan burger from McDonald’s - the McPlant - has made its debut in the fast-food chain’s UK outlets.
Having already been launched in several other countries, the McPlant burger has arrived in the UK, and McDonald’s is no doubt hoping it’ll prove to be a hit among non-meat eaters and meat eaters alike.
Here we’ll give you the lowdown on the McPlant, with everything you need to know about the latest addition to the McDonald’s menu.
What is the McPlant?
The McPlant burger is a totally meat-free vegan burger.
Made in collaboration with US meat substitute firm Beyond Meat, the McPlant emulates the taste and texture of McDonald’s famous beef patties.
Available for £3.49, the burger contains 420 calories, which is roughly the same as a beef double cheeseburger.
The meatless McPlant burger has been in development for three years, and its makers say it packs as much flavour as real beef.
What is the McPlant burger made of?
It isn’t entirely clear as yet exactly what the McPlant burger is made of, but Beyond Meat has previously made a burger patty from beetroot juice, potato, coconut and yellow peas.
The vegan cheese slice on top of the burger is reportedly made from pea protein and is again designed to emulate the taste of McDonald’s cheese.
In the UK, the Vegetarian Society has certified the McPlant burger as a vegan option. However, a version that went on sale in Austria contained egg-based mayonnaise and dairy cheese.
What are the other vegan options at McDonald’s?
McDonald’s offers other vegan products, including the Spicy Veggie One and its Veggie Dippers.
Its fries and hash browns are also listed as vegan options, as are its carrot bags. All of them have been certified as vegan by the Vegetarian Society.
Ian Borden, international president at McDonald’s, has hinted that the McPlant range could eventually expand to include other products such as chicken substitutes as well.
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