The Reasons Why McDonalds Food Is So Additctive

1. High in delicious salt

Image source / RedditIf you're one of those people who just can't stop munching on McDonald's, you might wanna watch out. Turns out, their food is loaded with salt, which can make it hard to put the brakes on once you start chowing down. So, maybe try sharing that Big Mac with a friend or something!

2. High in satisfying fats

Image source / Metro UKMcDonald's food is definitely satisfying when you're craving something greasy and delicious. The thing is, it can also be pretty high in fat. So, if you're looking to eat something that'll fill you up for a bit, McDonald's is a great choice. Just keep in mind that it might not be the best option for your health in the long run.

3. It’s cheap!

Image source / redditCompared to most restaurants, McDonald's food is pretty cheap and that makes it really easy to justify buying and eating more of it. I mean, who doesn't love a good value meal? It's totally understandable why so many people go for it. Plus, the food is pretty tasty too! So don't beat yourself up if you find yourself craving a Big Mac or a large order of fries. We all do it!

4. Masters of marketing

Image source / Ads of the worldHave you ever noticed how McDonald's makes their food look so darn delicious in their commercials and ads? It's crazy! They use some clever marketing tactics to make their burgers and fries look super appealing and desirable. Although some folk have cottoned onto this and made some pretty funny ‘expectation vs reality’ style photos mocking the standard of the food compared to what it looks like in the ads.

5. Widely available

Image source / RedditIf you're ever in a rush and need a quick bite, you can always count on McDonald's. We’ve all been there, let’s be honest. Their food is super convenient and available pretty much everywhere. So whether you're on the go or just craving a Big Mac, you'll never have to go far to get your hands on some delicious McDonald's grub. No wonder it’s so addictive!

6. Recognisable, delicious flavors

Image source / RedditWe’ve heard about the high salt and fat content that makes the McDonald's food so tasty and it’s true… Overall, the flavors are so strong, it's like a party in your mouth! But here's the thing, once you start eating that golden arches grub, it's tough to stop. It's like an addiction, but a delicious addiction. Trust me, you won't be able to resist!

7. It's served hot

Image source / TripadvisorIt never crossed my mind before but McDonald's food is always hot and ready to go (unlike some fast food that’s served cold and prepackaged). I mean, who doesn't love a piping hot Big Mac or a hot and crispy order of fries? It's so comforting and satisfying to sink your teeth into a warm meal, especially on a chilly day.

8. The sauces…

Image source / Burger LadIf the food itself wasn’t delicious enough already then don’t forget those dipping sauces! McDonald's food always seems to taste even better with a little ketchup or one of their other dipping sauces. Like, seriously, it's almost addictive. I can't help but crave that combo of crispy fries and sweet, tangy ketchup. It's the perfect match made in heaven, if you ask me. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!

9. Portion sizes

Image source / YoutubeXXL portion anyone? If you're looking for a restaurant that won't skimp on portions, McDonald's is the right place! The food is always served up in big portions, so you'll definitely get your money's worth. You won't have to worry about leaving hungry, that's for sure. Plus, it's always great to have leftovers for later.

10. You get a full meal

Image source / RedditWhen you order food at McDonald's, you'll get a complete meal experience. Not only do you get your delicious main dish (I’m a Big Mac lover myself), but you also get a drink and fries to go with it. It's the perfect trio of yumminess! No wonder we keep going back - they definitely know how to fill us up.

11. Iconic branding

Image source / The StreetHave you ever noticed how McDonald's always uses those iconic golden arches and that happy little guy in their branding? It's no accident, trust me. They know that by using those familiar images, it makes their food seem a lot more appealing to the masses. It's like a subconscious thing. We see those images and it makes us crave a Big Mac or some fries. Clever, huh?

12. Tempting for children

Image source / FM104Not only do they serve up delicious burgers, fries, and shakes, but they also throw in a toy or other fun little surprise with kid’s meals. It's like a two-for-one deal - they get yummy food AND a toy to play with! What kid doesn't love a toy!? No wonder McDonald's is loved by kids the world over. They literally order a ‘Happy Meal’ for Christ sake!

13. Smiling staff

Image source / RedditOk, I’m sure we’ve all had an experience with less-than-friendly McDonald’s wait staff but on the whole, their ethos is to be smiley, happy and helpful. It's amazing how much of a difference that little extra touch of customer service can make and generally Maccy Ds staff are really friendly and welcoming.

14. FAST food

Image source / NFC WorldClues in the name really ‘fast food’. But truthfully, this is one major reason why we all keep rushing back. They're super efficient and you don't have to wait long for your food. Not only can you enjoy a delicious Big Mac or some fries, you can always count on them for a fast, satisfying meal. Nothing worse than waiting around and that’s never the case at McDonald’s.

15. It feels like home

Image source / Trip advisorNext time you pay a visit to the golden arches, take a look at the interiors. Pretty welcoming right? The bright colors and familiar logo always make you feel comfortable. Plus, with the open kitchens, the smell of those delicious fries and burgers just brings back so many fond, family memories. Don’t even get me started on the calming music…!

16. Deals and promotions

Image source / Wales onlineSure, it’s already reasonably priced food so when you consider the amount of promotions they also offer it’s little wonder we keep going back for a bargain. Monopoly anyone? Free apple pie, yes please! Free cheeseburger for students - genius! If you’re strapped for cash, McDonald’s has got you covered.

17. Customization

Image source / RedditOne of the best things in life is choice. No one likes to feel like they’ve been forced or made to do something, right? Well at McDonald's you’ll never feel like that. The whole menu is customizable - pick your meal, size, side, drink, sauces… the opportunity to tailor make a meal perfectly suited to you is irresistible and a less obvious, but important reason why we keep returning.

18. Convenient containers

Image source / The MirrorIt’s not called fast food for nothing - you can be in and out of the doors of the golden arches in under 5 minutes, making the food perfect for busy people on the go. McDonald’s is well aware of this and has cleverly designed its packaging into convenient, portable containers that make saving your meal for later or eating on the go entirely possible.

19. Memorable slogan

Image source / almafuerte.gov.arAh the clever tricks of the advertisers mean that McDonald’s and its bright colors, familiar characters and catchy slogan are never too far out of mind. Being McDonald’s, a memorable slogan alone wasn’t enough, the big wigs at the top added the famous tune and ‘ba da da da daaa, I’m lovin’ it’ was born - originally fronted by pop icon Justin Timberlake!

20. Eaten by celebs

Image source / VogueTalking of Justin Timberlake, despite its humble price tag, McDonald’s is loved by rich and poor the world over. And nobody loves a Big Mac more than our celebrity friends. From JT himself to the health-conscious Kardashians, it would appear that you’re never too famous for skinny fries and nuggets!

21. Kids parties

Image source / RedditWe all remember a good old McDonald’s birthday party. You and your pals, happily tucking into your appropriately named Happy Meal, sat high on a long bench feeling like absolute legends. You’d trade the toys from your Happy Meal, leave with a balloon and, if you were really lucky, might even have a visit from Ronald McDonald himself!

22. Loved by children and adults

Image source / YoutubeWe’ve heard about the nostalgia inducing children’s parties and this leads up nicely to our next point… One reason we can’t get enough of McDonald’s is because of its broad appeal. Whether you’re 4 or 94, there is a meal as McDonald’s for you that you’re going to love. It’s no wonder you see families enjoying meals together, there’s something for everyone!

23. Low in cals...

Image source / LinkedInWe’ve already heard how McDonald's food is jam-packed full of flavor (high in salts and fats). Cleverly though, their food has been designed so that it isn't actually that high in calories. And seeing as people the world over obsess over calorie counting, you could be lead to believe the food isn’t that bad for you. Hmm… everything in moderation!

24. The OG

Image source / History.comDid you know that ‘fast-food’ style restaurants like McDonald's haven’t actually been around that long? The first restaurant opened in the States in 1955, but it wasn’t until the 70s that it was available more widely. If you live in the UK, then you can add another 15 years! So what am I getting at? The point is, McDonald’s set a trend - a trend for delicious, convenient food enjoyed the world over. People are loyal to brands they love and McDonald’s was the OG of fast food.

25. Long shelf life

Image source / Business InsiderHave you ever seen those photos of a Big Mac that at 20 years old looks the same as the day it was bought? Yeah they’re pretty freaky but then who the heck is keeping food that long anyway!? Ok maybe the shelf-life on McDonald’s food is a little tooo generous but either way, if you buy a Big Mac in the morning, you know it will still be good by the next day (top tip: microwave not oven…)

26. Green credentials

Image source / YoutubeLike most mega-brands these days, McDonald’s has a whole team dedicated to ensuring they aren’t harming the planet. Given their global reach and inevitable carbon footprint, having people specifically employed to make sure they aren’t too harmful to Mother Earth makes sense. It may not be an important factor for everyone but for some, it is. Now let’s not mention the global impact of eating red meat…

27. SO many employees

Image source / The GuardianDid you know that you can look up lists of the biggest employers in the world - Walmart and Amazon take the top spots. A little further down the list you’ll see McDonald’s, who employ an impressive 205,000 people in the USA alone. Due to its massive reach, there’s a high chance you’ll know someone employed (or previously employed) by McDonald's. So if you’re not swinging by to say hi to your pal, chances are you or someone you’re with might have worked there before - a nostalgic drag back to the place you once flipped burgers and filled fries.

28. Consistency

Image source / Robotics and Automation NewsOne thing that McDonald’s became famous for was its use of automation. That’s a fancy word for making sure everything, everywhere is done the same. Whether you order a tray of nuggets in Maine or California, you know they will have the same delicious taste. From using the same machines, to training staff to work in the exact same way, McDonald’s has consistency down to a fine art and it’s surely one of the reasons we keep going back.

29. Adapts to local cultures

Image source / BuzzfeedAnd now to contradict myself entirely! Sure, from one side of the US to another, the McDonald’s menu is pretty much the same - you know what to expect. But did you know that McDonald's adapts its menu depending on the country it’s in. For example, in China you can order a ‘Taro Pie’ which looks like an apple pie but the filling is bright purple! According to Disfold.com, ‘As of 2016, McDonald’s serves over 69 million customers daily in more than 36,900 outlets, located in more than 100 countries.’ Wow.

30. Drive-thru

Image source / DlistedAnd last but by no means least, all hail the McDonald’s drive thru. Sure, most places come with a drive-thru these days but like so many things we’ve learnt to love, McDonald’s did it first. There’s something fun about the drive-thru isn’t there? Not having to leave your car, wiggling around the store to the different windows. Chatting into the intercom to order your food. What would our long-lost ancestors say if they could see this madness, probably get me a McDonald’s!