McDonald’s makes major change to one item in all UK restaurants

The world-renowned fast food chain has significantly changed its drinks products.

customers have discovered new packaging used for hot drinks as part of the brand’s 2030 pledge to “close the loop on waste”.

Outlets across the UK have switched all hot drink lids to eco-friendly fibre-based lids already used for its “Expresso” drinks range. However, some patrons argue that these new lids lose shape when exposed to heat.

According to McDonald’s, the change was made to reduce packaging material by 30%. The company seems to have already met its 2024 goal of making all primary customer packaging recyclable or compostable.

This led to paper straws, cutlery, and plastic-free salad boxes. However, the new lids have not been well received, with disgruntled customers taking to social media to air their grievances.

One person wrote on X: “Can’t stand these new lids. Surely you can find plastic lids that can be recycled?” Another added: “Same as the stupid paper straws that go soggy in 10 minutes.”

A third commented: “I think you might want to rethink this new cardboard lid idea. It’s literally collapsing as I drink it.”

The reception hasn’t been all bad. One customer appeared to approve of the new change, writing on X: “At last – new lids from McDonald’s! The black plastic were terrible; at last something positive – well done, McDonald’s.”

McDonald’s defended the change in a statement: “As with any changes we make, the new packaging went through a thorough testing process to collate extensive internal and external feedback, allowing us to make any necessary changes before launch.”

New and improved lids aren’t the only big change to McDonald’s drinks. The fast food giant said: “We provide recycling points for our paper cups in all our UK restaurants and are working with the National Cup Recycling Scheme to expand the national infrastructure for recycling cups in other locations, such as shopping centres.”

Sharing the vision on its website, the chain elaborated: “We include clear recycling labelling on all packaging to help customers to recycle at home or in restaurants and are trialling new recycling units that will allow customers to easily separate paper, plastic, cups and food waste.”

It’s not just McDonald’s drinks that have seen some big changes in 2025. Fans of the brand may notice more deals this January with a range of money-saving combinations available across the menu.

McDonald’s deals include the £5 Meal Deal, which allows customers to enjoy a Cheeseburger or Mayo Chicken, Medium Fries, a Medium Soft Drink, and a bonus side of four golden Chicken McNuggets for just £5.

The £1.99 Wrap of the Day deal continues with the new Chicken Katsu flavour included. Fans can secure 20% off the entire menu in a McDonald’s App exclusive, Deal Drop. Also included in the new deal are two alternative offers: a £2 saving when spending £10 and a personalised menu item deal.