Featured Image Credit: Jason Alden/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Topics: McDonalds
Lara Owen
McDonald’s fries are iconic. Salty, golden and scientifically designed to be irresistible - there’s no denying the grip they have on the world.
But now, the internet is coming for the carton they come in, and it's got people looking twice at their Maccies meals.
While most of us just rip open the bag and dive straight in, some eagle-eyed fans have started questioning whether we're actually getting as many fries as we think.
Advert
Enter the conspiracy theory currently doing the rounds: is McDonald’s packaging designed to give the illusion of a fuller portion?
"That's what the fry design on the back of the container is for," one Reddit user wrote.
If you've never paid attention to the back of the iconic red carton, you might want to go grab one.
People now believe the printed fries on the back are a clever visual trick to make your brain think you’ve got more in there than you actually do.
It didn't take long for the theory to spill over onto social media, where people are losing it. One person tweeted:
"It's OK to order a large fry at my local McDonalds because you only get a medium anyway. I appreciate the little French fry pictures on the carton to give you the illusion of more fries."
Another was even more upset: "I'm having a high stress day today and instead of the breakdown I deserve, I treated myself to a Coke & a med Fry from McDonalds... Apparently they thought the fries on the carton were part of the medium fry experience, but this is so on brand for how my day is going. #halfempty"
In fairness, it's not like portion sizes haven't been shrinking everywhere lately (otherwise known as 'shrinkflation'), but suggesting McDonald's has gone for a full optical illusion has sparked serious debate.
Some people are now demanding answers. Others are just impressed by this so-called sneaky detail. A few even admitted they'd never noticed the design before but suddenly feel betrayed.
It also raises questions about how much of what we eat is shaped by clever marketing and subconscious design.
From colour psychology to product placement, there's a whole world of tricks used to make fast food feel bigger, better and more satisfying than it might actually be.
So, is this a corporate plot or just a weird coincidence?
McDonald's haven’t responded to this theory yet - but let’s face it, they'll probably let this theory dissipate. But even if they do respond, would it really stop us going back for more?
Because whether it's five chips or fifty, we'll still be ordering them. Just maybe keeping a closer eye on the box next time.
McDonald's has been contacted for comment.