The burger is not entirely new to American customers. It previously appeared for a limited time in the U.S. in 2020, when some diners responded positively to the oversized version of the chain’s signature sandwich.
It has also appeared outside the United States in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Some customers online noted that they had already seen or tried it in those markets.
Why Customers Are Split
Some fast-food fans said they were eager to try the larger sandwich as soon as it arrives. One Facebook user wrote, “I’m gonna eat one of those, then feel disgusting after, but I bet I’ll enjoy every minute.” Others reacted with comments such as “Yum! I can’t wait!” and “I’ll take 3 please.”
Not everyone welcomed the launch. Some critics called the burger excessive, with one reaction labeling it “disgusting.” Others objected to the idea of promoting such a large fast-food item in the U.S., where obesity rates are often part of broader public health discussions.
The Double Big Mac is listed at 680 calories, according to the source report. For some customers, that number is part of the appeal; for others, it is exactly why they are pushing back.
The Bigger Picture
The launch also arrives at a time when many fast-food customers are paying closer attention to menu prices. Reports have noted that McDonald’s increased prices by 14 percent in the U.S. during the third quarter of 2023, and some locations have charged as much as $18 for a Big Mac combo meal with medium fries and a medium soft drink.
Because prices can vary by location, it is not yet clear what every customer will pay for the Double Big Mac. Some reports suggested the larger burger could push a meal above $20 in certain cases, depending on the restaurant and combo options.
For McDonald’s, limited-time menu items can help draw attention and encourage repeat visits. For customers, the question may be simpler: whether the extra patties are worth the cost, the calories, and the online criticism.
The Double Big Mac is expected to land in U.S. stores on January 24, giving curious customers a short window to decide where they stand on the four-patty version of a fast-food classic.