Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at your favorite fast food chain? Here are 10 secrets that will change the way you view fast food.
The Truth About Milkshakes
Milkshakes are often marketed as a delicious and indulgent treat at fast food restaurants, but the reality is quite different. Many well-known establishments use powdered mix instead of real ice cream to make their milkshakes. This fact raises questions about product quality and authenticity that consumers might want to consider the next time they indulge in a milkshake craving.
The Trick to Freshest Fries
Fries at fast food joints can sometimes be hit or miss, often soggy or stale. A simple trick to ensure you get the freshest fries possible is to order them unsalted. When you do so, employees will usually have to prepare a brand new batch, which guarantees you're receiving hot and crispy fries. Take advantage of this tips for a better fast food experience!
Chili from Repurposed Meat
While fast food chains often market their chili as fresh and delicious, the truth may be a bit unsettling. Some restaurants utilize repurposed meat in chili, specifically unsold burger patties that have been sitting around for too long. This strategy not only helps reduce food waste but also provides a cost-effective way for establishments to serve hearty chili. Knowing this can give you a new perspective on that bowl of chili!
Secret Menu Items
Many fast food lovers are intrigued by the idea of a secret menu. Employees are often aware of popular fast food secret menu items that may not actually be on the official menu. While you may encounter a cold reception if your request is too complex, there may be ways to order these secret items by composing them from standard menu offerings. Try asking for variations next time you go!
Drive-Thru Order Efficiency
Ever waited in a drive-thru line, only to find your order wrong or your food cold? One reason for this could be the intense pressure on employees during rush hours. Management often incentivizes speed with bonuses for meeting drive-thru order times. This rush can lead to errors or compromised food quality. Understanding this can help temper your expectations during peak hours.
The Reality of Fryer Oil
Fast food fryers are not always as clean as you might hope. Did you know that the oil in these fryers is typically changed only every two days? Even then, fresh oil often replaces just 75% of the used oil, meaning burgers and fries could be cooked in oil that still has a faint taste of old food. Knowing this can help you make informed choices when selecting fried items.
Fake Grill Marks
One of the things that can make a burger visually appealing is the grill marks. While they do look great, many fast food chains rely on machines to replicate those grill marks on frozen patties before they're cooked. This could be surprising to many, revealing the lengths fast food chains will go to make their products visually tempting.
The Impact of Rude Customers
Being kind to your fast food server can lead to a more enjoyable meal experience. Reports suggest that rude customers tend to receive less attention, or worse, could even find themselves with ‘special’ circumstances borrowed from kitchen mischief. A little kindness can go a long way in fast food environment, changing not only your experience but also how your food is prepared.
Chemical Residue on Food
One last secret you might want to be aware of concerns cleanliness protocols. After hours, fast food restaurants often use strong chemicals to clean their kitchens, including grills and beverage machines. If you order food right after the restaurant opens, there’s potential for some of that chemical residue to make its way onto your food. This knowledge encourages more cautious eating habits, particularly if you're sensitive to chemicals.
Final Thoughts
When you step into your favorite fast food restaurant, keep these 10 secrets in mind. Whether it’s how a fast food milkshake is made or smarter ways to order for the freshest fries, understanding the behind-the-scenes elements can transform your experience into something more insightful. Consider these tips and approach your next fast food outing with newfound awareness.