McDonald’s Accused of Using Deceptive Cheese Substitutes
The Maharashtra FDA in Mumbai has initiated measures against McDonald’s, alleging deceptive practices due to the purported use of substitutes rather than authentic cheese in their burgers and nuggets.\
Following the suspension of a McDonald’s outlet in Ahmednagar, the chain has removed the term “cheese” from several menu items at that location. The FDA is urging McDonald’s to implement similar corrective measures across the state and potentially nationwide.
Cheese alternatives, also known as cheese analogues, aim to mimic the flavor, texture, and properties of conventional dairy cheese. These substitutes, reportedly found in various McDonald’s products, often substitute milk or dairy fat with more economical vegetable oil. The regulatory authority for food accused McDonald’s of incorporating cheese analogues without transparent disclosure on food packaging or electronic menus, potentially leading consumers to believe they are consuming genuine cheese.
FDA: Fast Food Chains Deceptive with Cheese Substitutes
Abhimanyu Kale, the FDA commissioner, informed TOI that the absence of such critical information is highly deceptive for consumers and could pose health risks. He stated, “During our inspection, there was no indication of cheese analogues being used. Products such as ‘cheese nuggets,’ ‘cheesy dip,’ and ‘cheeseburger’ were labeled without indicating that the cheese used was a substitute.”
Kale raised apprehensions about the possibility of similar practices occurring. prevalent in other fast-food pizza and burger chains, indicating plans to investigate them as well.
Beginning of the FDA Action
The FDA’s action against McDonald’s commenced in October with an inspection of their Kedgaon branch in Ahmednagar. After uncovering that a minimum of eight items, including cheesy nuggets, McCheese veg burger, McCheese non-veg burger, corn and cheese burger, cheesy Italian veg, and blueberry cheesecake, contained cheese.
cheesecake, contained cheese analogues, a show-cause notice was issued to the establishment by a food inspector. Despite McDonald’s objections to the FDA’s actions, their explanation was deemed unsatisfactory, leading to the suspension of the outlet’s license.
Subsequently, the FDA commissioner issued an order emphasizing the importance of clear labeling, specifying font size and colors distinct from regular cheese.
Additionally, he mandated the display of nutritional information, including the percentage of fat, protein, etc., for products utilizing substitutes. Kale emphasized that up to 40% of display boards in establishments should be dedicated to specifying nutritional values.
He added, “Menu cards should clearly indicate the use of analogues, addressing allergen concerns, and dietary considerations such as the presence of higher trans-fat.”
In December, McDonald’s communicated with the FDA, stating that they have revised the names of certain products by eliminating the term “cheese.” For instance, cheesy nuggets were renamed as veg nuggets, McCheese veg burger became cheddar delight veg burger, and blueberry cheesecake was renamed as blueberry cake, among others. Some outlets in Santacruz, Kurla, and Bhendi Bazar have already begun displaying the updated names.
