McDonald’s fans have spotted a serious change ahead of the much-anticipated comeback of the McRib, with some even claiming things “won’t be the same”. The McRib is set to return to McDonald’s UK menu on October 16, following nearly a decade of customer calls for its revival.
The pork burger – featuring barbeque sauce, onions, and pickles on a soft roll – has been a fan favourite globally. In the past, the pork patties were grilled before being drenched in the rich barbeque sauce.
A TikTok video by user @Madaboutmaccies demonstrated the original method of submerging the patties before they were topped with sliced onions and pickles. However, as stores across the UK provide a glimpse into the making of the 2024 McRib, long-standing burger lovers have pointed out one glaring difference, reports the Mirror.
Employees keen to spread the word before the release showed how they’re meant to put together the sandwich now. It starts by toasting the bun with the tangy barbecue sauce applied on both sides using a sauce bottle.
The meat patty is then added to the toppings, appearing significantly less coated in sauce than its 2014 predecessor. Fans and ex-employees have voiced their opinions in the comments section of one such video.
One person commented: “Not a proper McRib! Back in the day it was kept in the unit with barbecue sauce submerging it.” Another claimed: “McDonald’s always manage to mess it up. The meat used to be dipped not dry!”
Meanwhile, a third disappointment fan wrote: “I was looking forward to this coming back. It won’t be the same so won’t bother now I’ve seen what you’ve done to the McRib!”
Comments on the sauce change were apparent throughout, as someone else said: “Sad times! Best ask for extra sauce when ordering!”
A former employee recalled: “I worked [at McDonald’s] back in the early 2010s when they last had it. Was nowt wrong with having patties held in the sauce trays. Dunno why they’ve ruined it now!”
Responding to the complaints, a spokesperson for McDonald’s said: “We are pleased to confirm the hugely anticipated arrival of the McRib on October 16, returning to the UK for the first time since December 2014. The McRib is a limited-edition product and will be available whilst stocks last.
“Over the years the flavour of the product has remained the same, however we have evolved the way the sauce is dispensed. We have managed to remove complexity and simplify procedures for our crewmembers whilst still delivering the iconic McRib sauce, that our fans love.”
First launched in 1981, the McRib has garnered a cult-like status among its aficionados, who eagerly await its sporadic global returns. Fast food devotees were last able to indulge in the famed burger in the UK back in 2015.
Fans were excited for the return when the fast food chain accidently leaked the information themselves with an app alert ready “McRib_Test.Notfication” along with the October 16 date. But, in the wake of videos showing the new process, some might give this rare chance to try the burger again a miss.
This comeback is part of a broader McDonald’s menu overhaul, which sees some seasonal items replaced by new offerings and other well-loved classics. Notably, there’s buzz around the Mini Hash Brown Bites coming to the breakfast menu.