Introducing the revolutionary ‘Protein Plus Slice,’ a groundbreaking addition to McDonald’s menu that combines high nutritional value with the beloved taste of McDonald’s. This innovative slice, made from 100% vegetarian ingredients, promises to redefine the way we enjoy our favorite burgers.
Recently launched by McDonald’s India, which operates in the western and southern regions through Westlife Foodworld, the ‘Protein Plus Range’ is a testament to the brand’s commitment to health without sacrificing flavor. The highlight of this range is the first-of-its-kind, plant-based ‘Protein Slice,’ engineered to seamlessly add 5 grams of protein to each burger, enhancing nutritional options for health-conscious customers.
The versatility of the Protein Plus Slice allows it to integrate effortlessly into McDonald’s existing menu items. For instance, when added to a McSpicy Paneer, diners get an impressive 25.29 grams of protein. Similarly, the McChicken offers 20.66 grams of protein, while the McVeggie delivers 15.24 grams. Even the classic McAloo Tikki, well-regarded for its balanced nutrition, includes 13.5 grams of protein, showcasing the leap in healthy options available through McDonald’s.
- Each Protein Plus Slice provides 5 grams of protein.
- This slice boasts 100% vegetarian ingredients, featuring pea protein and soy protein, along with gluten and refined soy oil.
- The Protein Plus Slice contains NO onion or garlic, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
- As part of McDonald’s “Real Food, Real Good” philosophy, it is crafted without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives—only annatto food coloring and vinegar are used.
- The flavor profile is highlighted by its cheese base and buttery top notes!
At the event, Kadam stated, “Initiatives like these align with the preamble of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which aims to ensure the availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption. They also reflect the vision of the ‘Eat Right India’ movement by FSSAI—promoting safe, nutritious, and sustainable food choices across the country.”
Furthermore, he noted, “It is heartening to see scientific research institutions and industry leaders collaborate to contribute toward national nutrition goals. This partnership model is essential for safeguarding our public health landscape.”
The Protein Plus Slice is a product of collaboration with the esteemed CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), which operates under the Ministry of Science and Technology in India. With a formulation that leverages soy and pea protein, the Protein Plus Slice meets the growing demand for vegetarian options and contains no artificial colors or flavors. It is also free of onion and garlic, appealing to a variety of dietary preferences.
The scientific team at CFTRI devoted nearly six months to perfecting this innovative slice in partnership with McDonald’s. Key team members included Jyothilakshmi, Chetana R., Sachin Eligar, Giridhar, Prabhasankar, Aashitosh Inamdar, and Sudheer Yanam.
“This initiative signifies our ongoing commitment to our ‘Real Food, Real Good’ philosophy, fusing flavor, nutrition, and food science. We are grateful to CSIR-CFTRI for collaborating with us to bring this forward-thinking product to market,” he further added.
CSIR-CFTRI’s expertise in nutritional science was instrumental in developing a slice that upholds McDonald’s renowned taste, texture, and quality standards. Notably, this marks McDonald’s India’s second innovative partnership with CSIR-CFTRI, following the successful launch of the Multi-Millet Bun last year.
The Protein Plus Meals will cater to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian diners. The vegetarian option features a burger enhanced with the Protein Slice, accompanied by a protein-packed corn cup and Coke Zero. For those opting for the non-vegetarian meal, it includes the McCrispy Chicken paired with a Protein Slice, four-piece Chicken McNuggets, and Coke Zero, together creating a wholesome, protein-enriched dining experience.