Key Development
McDonald’s India (West and South), operated by Westlife Foodworld, introduced its latest innovation – a plant-based Protein Slice that adds 5 grams of protein to every burger, making quick-service meals nutritionally stronger and safer. The company priced the slice at ₹25 and made it available across all McDonald’s outlets in West and South India. At the Worli launch event in Mumbai, Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Food and Drugs Administration, Yogesh Kadam, emphasised that the move aligns with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which ensures the availability of safe and wholesome food for consumers.
Cheddar Look, Safer Choice
The slice looks like cheddar – orange and round – but McDonald’s crafted it from soy, pea, and whey protein, keeping it 100% vegetarian. It contains no preservatives, artificial colours, onion, or garlic, meeting diverse dietary needs while ensuring safety and clean labelling. Each slice weighs 15 grams, and customers can add one or more to any burger, customising their protein intake without compromising taste or safety.
Science Behind the Slice
McDonald’s India developed the Protein Slice in partnership with the CSIR–Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), a government-backed research institution. The same team worked on the multi-millet bun earlier, reinforcing the brand’s effort to blend science, safety, and taste in the QSR space. Dr. Sridevi Annapurna Singh, CFTRI Director, stressed the need for such innovation: “Nearly 70% of Indian adults lack sufficient protein, and children also fall short. Improving protein intake through safe, everyday foods is vital for public health.” She further explained that the team faced challenges in achieving the right texture, shelf life, and moisture content to make the slice both safe and palatable.
How It Elevates Nutrition
With the Protein Slice added, burgers now deliver:
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McSpicy Paneer: 25.29 g protein
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McChicken: 20.66 g
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McVeggie: 15.24 g
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McAloo Tikki: 13.5 g
These numbers show a deliberate shift to make fast food more nutritious and safer for everyday consumption.
‘Eat Right’ in Action
Akshay Jatia, Executive Director of Westlife Foodworld, linked the launch to the brand’s ‘Real Food, Real Good’ commitment: “We first introduced the multi-millet bun to bring traditional grains into our menu. Now, with the protein slice, we add an essential nutrient without compromising safety or taste.” McDonald’s also rolled out Protein Plus Meals in vegetarian and non-vegetarian options to reinforce this health-driven approach. Senior FDA officials and food safety regulators attended the event. Minister Kadam remarked: “This initiative reflects FSSAI’s ‘Eat Right India’ vision by promoting safe, nutritious, and sustainable food. When science and industry collaborate, they create models that strengthen public health.”
Why It Matters
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McDonald’s India addresses protein deficiency while meeting FSSAI norms
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The company demonstrates food safety compliance with clean-label innovation
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It responds to consumer demand for safe, science-backed nutrition
McDonald’s India signals a major shift with this launch, proving that fast food can balance taste, nutrition, and food safety.
Source: The Economic Times