McDonald's responds after 'disappointment' over major change to menu

McDonald’s has discussed why a number of meat-free options will be axed from its menu in the near future, following some upset among customers.

The fast-food retailer’s year is off to a strong start, what with the introduction of the Secret Menu, as well as plans in place to finally bring the exclusive Friends meal to the UK.

Other highlights include the newly-launched £5.59 meal deal and a brand-new roster of items landing in February, including a major sweet treat counter overhaul.

However, vegetarians are dismayed to learn that McDonald’s is scrapping some plant-based dishes, with The Sun reporting that this could be up to ‘80 percent’ of the veggie meals.

It's believed that the McPlant will not be going anywhere (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Unfortunately there seems to be four vegetarian-friendly dishes on the chopping block, as stated by the publication.

The first are the Veggie Dippers, which are served alongside a tasty blend of red pepper and sun-dried tomato pesto.

It’s alleged that the breadcrumbed sticks will no longer be available to purchase in packs of two or four, and won’t be in Happy Meals either.

You can use your McDonald's rewards points to bag these for free before they reportedly are gone for good.

Allegedly following them to the grave is the Spicy Veggie Wrap, which was officially launched in January 2019.

Fans are reportedly being forced to bid farewell to the Spicy Veggie Wrap (McDonald's)

The Vegetarian Society-accredited menu staple features the same veggie dippers, as well as spicy relish, tomato, and lettuce.

Maccies is also allegedly dropping the Vegetable Deluxe sandwich.

The latter is extremely similar to the wrap, but is sandwiched between a sesame topped bun instead.

Social media users have been discussing McDonald’s ‘dumping’ almost all of its vegetarian options, with one X user commenting: “Devastated at this. When will companies learn that most vegetarians do not want veggie options like the McPlant that tastes like meat. They have taken everything I eat off the menu- no more @McDonaldsUK for me then.”

The Vegetable Deluxe Sandwich is also being axed, according to reports (McDonald's)

“What a let down!! You're removing ALL vegetarian items from your menu apart from the McPlant, next week? Is this actually true? Please reconsider. Unfortunately this now means I will be reconsidering where I have my weekly takeaway treat,” another lamented.

A third wrote: “This isn't the first post I've seen like this, another large retailer has cut it's vegan choices as I appears it's popularity isn't what it was.”

One angry customer also told The Sun: “As a non-meat eater I’m genuinely shocked.

“We are being targeted — McDonald’s obviously no longer wants us as customers.

“Quite why a considerate, modern firm based on every high street is now treating vegetarians like an afterthought and a nuisance is a mystery.

“They clearly view us as second class citizens, and I will be rethinking my fast food choices.”

McDonald's has since responded to the backlash, saying the move comes off the back of customer feedback.

“We’re always listening to our customers to help inform and evolve our menu," a spokesperson told the outlet.

“While McPlant remains a firm fan favourite and will continue to be the go-to choice for our vegetarian and vegan customers, we recognise these changes may be disappointing for some.

“We are actively learning from other markets to understand which vegetarian and vegan options are proving most popular and exploring exciting new offerings.”

LADbible Group has previously contacted McDonald’s for comment.