McDonald's new McVeggie burger, launched across Canada in 2025, has received generally positive reviews for its taste, ingredients, and value, though it is not classified as fully vegetarian or vegan due to shared cooking practices and some non-vegan ingredients.
Taste and Ingredients
The McVeggie burger features a breaded patty made from a mix of vegetables including carrots, green beans, zucchini, peas, soybeans, broccoli, and corn. Reviewers highlight its warm, crunchy texture and the noticeable presence of vegetable chunks, giving it a falafel-like but lighter flavor. It's served on a toasted sesame bun with shredded lettuce and a creamy mayo-style sauce. There is also a Spicy Habanero version with a spicy creamy sauce. The flavor is considered satisfying for those looking for a veggie alternative, with a pleasant blend of sweetness from the vegetables and balancing mayo, though it does not emulate meat flavor exactly.
Nutritional and Dietary Considerations
The burger contains about 470 calories, 22g of fat, and 11g of protein per serving. A plant-based dietitian praised the use of soy and vegetables but suggested the protein content could be higher for better satiety. The sodium level is relatively high but typical for fast food. Due to shared fryers and the presence of egg in the sauce, McDonald's states that the burger cannot be classified as strictly vegetarian or vegan.
Customer and Reviewer Opinions
The McVeggie was well received in initial trials, selling out quickly in several Canadian provinces. Customers noted its substantial size and reasonable price (around CAD 5.99 to 6.49). While it is a decent option for a vegetarian or flexitarian looking for variety, some reviewers felt it would not replace traditional meat burgers like the McDouble. Opinions on whether it meets the expectations of vegetarians or vegans vary due to cross- contamination and ingredients.
In summary, McDonald's McVeggie burger is a solid new plant-based option in Canada with good taste and quality, though it is not fully vegetarian/vegan compliant and has mixed reception regarding its healthiness and value compared to classic burgers.
