California McDonald’s Customers Report Shrinkflation on Fries as Prices Continue to Rise

McDonald’s customers in California are reporting shrinkflation on fries, with higher prices for smaller portions. A Reddit post showing a $14 Big Mac meal with disappointing fries has raised concerns as portion sizes shrink while prices continue to rise, sparking frustration among fast-food fans.

California McDonald’s Fans Face Higher Prices and Smaller Portions, Sparking Shrinkflation Concerns in 2024

California may be known as the Golden State, but there might be better destinations for fans of the Golden Arches. Los Angeles and San Diego are among the nation's top cities for the highest McDonald's prices. In another disappointing development for California's fast-food enthusiasts, 2024 brings another blow: higher prices for fewer fries.

A Bay Area Redditor recently shared a photo of their $14 Big Mac meal—somewhat of a bargain compared to the $18 Big Mac meal spotted at a Connecticut rest stop in 2023, but still steep. However, what caught the most attention was the "large" fries that appeared anything but. The photo shows a barely filled paper bag, raising questions about why the fries were even served in a bag. According to McDonald's website, small fries come in a paper bag, but medium and large sizes should be served in the brand's signature red cardboard carton. Unsurprisingly, the original poster wasn't thrilled with their meal, as evidenced by the subreddit where the photo was posted: r/mildlyinfuriating. (Though, with the state of the fries, "mildly" might be an understatement.)

As Shrinkflation Hits Fast Food, McDonald’s Faces Growing Backlash Over Smaller Portions and Rising Prices

As times grow more arduous, the restaurant industry has responded by shrinking portion sizes, which has led fast-food customers to complain of shrinkflation. McDonald's, in particular, has been a frequent target of these complaints, as the chain has more than doubled its prices over the last decade. Cutting portion sizes may be seen as a subtler method to boost profits, but if McDonald's thinks consumers haven't noticed, it isn’t very accurate. One Redditor suggested the shrinking Big Mac be renamed the "Little Mac," while another recalled a time when the burger patties were not as thin as they are today.

On r/shrinkflation, another user vented frustration at fellow consumers who continue to buy McDonald's shrinking items, warning them that the chain will persist with this practice as long as it remains profitable. However, there is some indication that the tide could be shifting. McDonald's has experienced declining sales globally, and this revenue dip may push the company to focus on attracting more budget-conscious customers with better value meals.