France Now Has The World's Most Expensive McDonald's Meal
In the U.S., many of us rightfully see McDonald's as an affordable fast food option. Not only does McDonald's boast a value menu with items costing under $3, but the chain's most expensive items still ring up at under $10. Meals aside, the Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese (specifically in Washington, D.C.) alone totals $6.42, making it the priciest McDonald's menu item.
However, if you were to visit a McDonald's in another country, you'd likely find unique menu items, complete with steeper prices. In fact, according to recent research by CashNetUSA, many European countries sell McDonald's items with prices in the double digits. France, with the most expensive McDonald's item in the entire world, proudly serves a $15.70 Triple Cheddar & Double Beef burger. This beast includes two patties, three layers of cheese, pickles, onions, and all the condiments you could possibly want, but even so, why is it so wildly expensive?
European McDonald's have higher quality standards
In addition to pastries, fresh salads, and a separate vegan-friendly menu, McDonald's France also seems to offer better quality ingredients, which will, of course, cost you a pretty penny. Per NPR, France locally sources its food, and McDonald's is no different.
What's more, while the cattle used by McDonald's in the U.S. are usually corn-fed, those in France are typically grass-fed. Grass-fed beef is simply always going to cost more than corn/grain-fed beef, as it's a longer process for the cattle to put on weight. However, many people prefer grass-fed beef due to health reasons and personal taste, so the upcharge could be well worth it.
McDonald's France also has both "quality markers" and "Nutri-Scores" on its menu items, allowing customers to read more about ingredient quality and overall nutrition. Part of the menu even highlights A and B-rated items – meaning items with the best nutritional value. The Triple Cheddar & Double Beef burger definitely isn't rated an A or a B, regardless of its quality, but it's good to know we have options.