McDonald’s (NYSE:MCD) trial of its plant-based McPlant burger in San Francisco and Dallas did not meet expectations, according to Joe Erlinger, the chain’s US chief.
Speaking at the Wall Street Journal's Global Food Forum in Chicago, Erlinger revealed that the test "was not successful in either market," indicating a lack of interest among U.S. consumers for plant-based proteins from the fast-food giant.
Following Erlinger’s remarks, shares of Beyond Meat (NASDAQ:BYND), McDonald’s partner in the McPlant project, dropped by as much as 5.1% on Wednesday.
In light of these results, McDonald’s is shifting its focus towards expanding its chicken offerings, a move driven by consumer preference and cost-effectiveness.
Erlinger noted that chicken is less expensive to produce and has become a more popular choice among consumers seeking affordable meal options.