Mike Haracz, a former corporate chef for McDonald’s, has been shedding light on the operations of the fast-food giant through his TikTok account. Recently, a discussion arose in one of his videos about whether McDonald’s burgers can grow mold, prompting Haracz to address the topic directly.
Contrary to popular belief, Haracz emphasized that claims of McDonald’s burgers never spoiling are false. He explained that when kept in a moist environment, like any other food, the burger and bun will indeed mold. However, he clarified that in instances where a McDonald’s burger appears not to mold, it’s due to the food’s ability to dehydrate easily.
McDonald’s chefs prepare the meat well done, which inherently reduces its moisture content and makes it less susceptible to molding. Additionally, the post-cooking salting and seasoning process further reduces moisture, creating conditions less favorable for mold growth.
Haracz likened the phenomenon to making jerky or croutons, where minimal moisture prevents microbial growth. He highlighted that reintroducing moisture to the burger can restart the molding process, dispelling notions that McDonald’s food is immune to spoilage under all conditions.
In conclusion, while McDonald’s burgers can mold under suitable conditions, their preparation methods and inherent properties contribute to their longevity in drier environments. Haracz’s insights aim to clarify misconceptions about the fast-food chain’s menu items and their susceptibility to spoilage.