Family Matters

Sharing the truth about the quality of McDonald's food

In a society where 'fast food' is usually equated with words like 'cheap' and 'low-quality,' how do we share the truth with millions of customers? Here at McDonald's the answer is simple: one mom at a time.

Since moms are often the key decision makers for family meals, we recruited a group of everyday moms in 2007 to be our first Moms' Quality Correspondents (MQC). It was important that we change the negative perceptions about the quality, safety, and nutrition of the food we love and serve. These moms each have at least one child at home, are working or are involved in occupations or community activities (including one mom who is a freelance writer with her own blog!) that allow them to share their McDonald's experiences with others.

"These moms have received unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to ask questions and witness first-hand how McDonald's menu items are made," explains Tara Hayes, Manager of McDonald's U.S. Communications. "They met with McDonald's nutritionists, innovation and menu development staff, and senior leadership. They also worked with Chef Dan Coudreaut in the test kitchen and have taken several field trips to the sources of our food, such as a beef processing supplier, an apple orchard and a chicken supplier." These field trips are documented through the MQC website, where videos, photos and journal entries take center stage. The women write about their perceptions, concerns and impressions about McDonald's food quality.

As a result of the program, the U.S. has created a group of credible brand ambassadors who've not only changed their own perceptions of our food quality, but also shared that message with millions of customers just like us!