Fast food is all about a quick meal, but there are some menu items that even the workers wouldn’t touch with a ten-foot pole. Knowing what to avoid could save you from an unpleasant experience.
Here are 15 menu items fast-food workers say to steer clear of and why.
Beverages from Soda Machines
Image Credit: kasarp studio/Shutterstock.
It’s not the soda you need to worry about—it’s the machines. Many fast-food chains neglect regularly cleaning their beverage dispensers, leaving residue and bacteria to build up over time. If the nozzles or internal lines are dirty, a soda might taste slightly off, but you’ll likely never know why. Next time you’re craving a drink, stick to bottled options instead.
Little Caesars Thin Crust Pizza
Image Credit: Jomapace/Shutterstock.
Unlike their regular crust, which is freshly made in-store, Little Caesars’ thin crust comes pre-made. Worse yet, these premade crusts are often stored in open cardboard boxes for days or weeks before use. While the flavor might seem okay, the age of the crust might not sit well with you. If craving a slice, stick with their classic offerings for a fresher option.
Yogurt and Ice Cream Toppings
Image Credit: P Maxwell Photography/Shutterstock.
Those colorful Fruity Pebbles or gummy bears sitting atop the toppings bar might look fun, but they could be older than you think. Rarely used toppings are often put back out daily, growing stale or worse over time. Stick to plain yogurt or ice cream to avoid the rainbow chaos.
Ice
Image Credit: The Image Party/Shutterstock.
Ice may seem innocent, but the machines that make it are often forgotten during routine cleaning schedules. Over time, mold and bacteria can build up in the dispensers, contaminating your icy drinks. Fast-food workers will tell you it’s not unusual for ice machines to be cleaned once every few months—if at all. When in doubt, get your drink without ice to avoid the gamble.
Starbucks Iced Oleato
Image Credit: Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.
Starbucks’ olive oil-infused coffee is intriguing, but the iced version misses the mark. While the hot Oleato latte has a cozy Cheerios-like flavor, the cold drink turns into a mess of separated oil and coffee. Workers report that the olive oil doesn’t mix well when iced, leaving a slick, unappetizing layer on top. If you’re curious, stick to the hot version.
Overloaded Pizzas
Image Credit: Bianca Hamtig/Shutterstock.
Piling on extra toppings at many pizza chains might seem like a great deal—but you’re getting less of each topping as you add more. Chains often follow a chart that limits the overall quantity of toppings, meaning a triple pepperoni pizza could end up with less pepperoni than a double. You’re essentially paying extra for a lighter portion of everything. Stick to two toppings if you want the most bang for your buck.
Starbucks Sandwiches
Image Credit: Deutschlandreform/Shutterstock.
These might look like the perfect on-the-go breakfast, but aren’t made fresh. Instead, Starbucks sandwiches arrive frozen and are reheated by staff. While they’re safe to eat and taste fine, they lack the freshness you might expect from the brand. If you’re looking for a fresh bite, you might want to explore local cafés instead.
Wendy’s Chili
Image Credit: MachoCoffee/Shutterstock.
Wendy’s chili has a devoted following, but this fact might make you think twice: it’s made using leftover burger patties. While repurposing meat is a great way to minimize waste, it does mean your chili contains reheated beef that may have been sitting around for a while. If you’re fine with that, go ahead—it’s still delicious. Just know what you’re getting into.
Buffet and Salad Bar Items
Image Credit: Love Solutions/Shutterstock.
While buffets and salad bars offer variety, they’re notoriously hard to keep sanitary. Guests may handle items with bare hands, double-dip, or even sip directly from ladles. Even when staff tries their best to monitor hygiene, keeping everything pristine is tough. For a safer experience, choose pre-packaged or made-to-order items instead.
McDonald’s Ice Cream Machines
Image Credit: Sorbis/Shutterstock.
The classic McDonald’s joke about the ice cream machine being “broken” often has a grain of truth. Many workers report that these machines are so difficult to clean that they often go neglected for long periods. This can lead to bacterial growth inside the machine, especially in the warmer months. You should skip the McFlurry unless you’re feeling lucky.
Burger King Chicken Nuggets During Slow Hours
Image Credit: Deutschlandreform/Shutterstock.
Fresh nuggets can be a tasty treat; ordering them during off-peak hours means getting reheated leftovers. Workers sometimes keep nuggets warm for extended periods to reduce waste, which can lead to a dry or rubbery texture. For the best experience, order them during busier times when the kitchen is more likely to be making fresh batches. Otherwise, you’re better off passing on the nuggets.
Panera Bread Soup in a Bread Bowl
Image Credit: Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.
Panera soups are well-loved, but the bread bowls aren’t always as fresh as they look. Workers report that the bowls often sit out for hours before being filled with soup. While the bread is still edible, it might not be as soft or flavorful as expected. If you’re a soup lover, consider ordering it in a regular bowl for the best experience.
Gas Station Fast Food Items
Image Credit: Artist Nadia Russ/Shutterstock.
Those tempting pizzas or burgers at gas station chains like Speedway or 7-Eleven might not be as fresh as they look. Workers often report that these items can sit under heat lamps for hours—or even days—before being sold. The result is a meal that’s overcooked, dried out, and far from its original glory. Stick to packaged snacks if you’re in a hurry.
Subway Tuna Salad
Image Credit: TY Lim/Shutterstock.
Subway’s tuna salad has long been controversial; workers often advise against it. Made with mayonnaise and left sitting out for hours, it can quickly lose its freshness. Some employees report that the smell alone is enough to make them wary. If you’re craving a sandwich, choose something that’s made fresh in front of you.
Dunkin’ Donuts Espresso Drinks
Image Credit: Aldrin Rachman Pradana/Shutterstock.
While Dunkin’ is known for its coffee, espresso can be hit or miss. Workers report that espresso machines are sometimes improperly calibrated, leading to bitter or overly watered-down drinks. Cleaning schedules for the machines aren’t always followed consistently. Stick to their regular coffee or cold brews for a more reliable caffeine fix.
8 Fruits to Avoid if You Have Diabetes
Image Credit: Cast Of Thousands/Shutterstock.
Managing diabetes doesn’t have to be challenging. Eliminating these fruits from your diet can help you better control your blood sugar levels and manage diabetes. Consume other diabetic-friendly fruits like raspberries, blackberries, avocados, green apples, and kiwis to get essential minerals and vitamins. Here are fruits you need to avoid if you have diabetes.
8 Fruits to Avoid if You Have Diabetes
20 Food to Stockpile (For the Best Chance of Survival)
Image Credit: Elizaveta Galitckaia/Shutterstock.
A well-stocked pantry can provide peace of mind and empower you to handle any situation. Whether it’s a natural disaster, economic instability, or simply unexpected guests, having a stash of versatile essential foods can make all the difference. Here’s a list of 20 of the best foods to stockpile, ensuring you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
Leave a Reply