Single-use plastic straws included in American McDonald’s order
Australians surprised and jealous of American McDonald’s order content: ‘They are so lucky’
- Aussies have called Americans “lucky” because of the find in McDonald’s order
- Plastic straws are still used at American fast food chains, but are banned Down Under
Thousands of Australians were horrified by a once-familiar product that was included in a traveler’s US McDonald’s order, but is now disappearing Down Under.
Ali Smith, from Brisbane, and her boyfriend visited the fast food chain abroad for the first time and were intrigued by the differences in offerings.
But many who viewed their posts were surprised that Americans still use plastic straws, sparking a heated debate as the single-use item is banned in most states and territories Down Under for environmental reasons.
In a TikTok videoAli seemed more surprised by the size of the tall drinks and the myriad of options available, while others were quick to point out the plastic in the comments.
‘What! Do they have plastic straws? How lucky,” one wrote, another said, “I would buy so many plastic straws and [to bring] back home to Australia.’
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Ali Smith, from Brisbane, and her boyfriend visited McDonald’s while traveling across America
After sharing a TikTok video, many Aussies were shocked that plastic straws are still being used
A large and a medium meal were ordered, with Ali and her boyfriend sampling each other’s meals to compare the two.
In the video, she said, “I can’t believe the amount of options for everything and how they call the burgers ‘sandwiches’… Look at these fries!” They’re as big as my head.’
The burger stuffed with bacon and ranch sauce was also “so big the box crushed it.”
She added that the medium-sized drink in the US is the equivalent of a large at home.
Many were also amazed at how Powerade was available to customers and wished it was an option in Australia.
One who has tried the overseas food added, “The only good thing about American McDonald’s are the plastic straws.”
But one Australian hit back at the decision to ban plastic straws, writing: “Australian shocked by find in US McDonalds
In recent years, states and territories in Australia have gradually banned single-use plastics, including straws, plates, cutlery, stirrers and plastic bags.
The decision was made in an effort to reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and oceans.
According to marine conservation, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory have all banned plastic straws.
Tasmania has not yet made this decision and a ban is expected to come into effect in the Northern Territory from 2025.