McDonald’s responds to claims restaurant charges $2.55 for cheese

The fast-food giant has responded to claims it charges $2.55 for a slice of cheese on a popular burger – amid growing outrage from Aussies.

McDonald’s Australia has come under fire after the fast-food giant was accused of charging customers an “insane” amount for a slice of cheese – but there’s actually a simple explanation.

The famous burger joint was asked to “explain” why a cheeseburger costs $2.55 more than a hamburger in a video shared by @Review_Food_Challenges on TikTok.

In the clip, the outraged Aussie compares the ingredients between the two popular menu items, and points out the only difference is a slice of cheese.

However the hamburger costs $2, while the cheeseburger costs $4.55.

“I’m telling you now, Macca’s is charging you $2.55 for a slice of cheese,” the man states.

“What the f**k.”

He also added the hashtag “#overpriced” to the caption, which reiterated his plea for McDonald’s to respond to his discovery.

McDonald’s has come under fire after being accused of charging customers $2.55 for a slice of cheese in its cheeseburger. Picture: Supplied

While many were quick to label the price difference “insane” – others pointed out there was a reason hamburgers are much cheaper.

“$2 hamburgers are a promotion otherwise it will be more expensive,” one stated.

“The $2 hamburger is a promotion that’s been going on for ages,” another agreed.

News.com.au understands, the promotion social media users are referring to is the “Loose Change Menu”, which was first introduced in 2012.

The value meal initiative brings down the cost of participating items, including the hamburger, and is available from 10.30am to midnight.

Outside of the promotional window (12.01 – 10.29am) there isn’t much difference in pricing.

Other items included in the “Loose Change Menu” include a soft-serve cone with Flake for $1, small fries for two bucks, and a small sundae – priced at $3.

You can also buy a “Happy Meal”, which contains a hamburger, cheeseburger, chicken McNuggets or a wholemeal snack wrap with a side, drink and toy, for $5.45.

A TikTok user asked the fast food giant to ‘explain’ it’s prices. Picture: TikTok

But there is a simple explanation. Picture: TikTok

McDonald’s Australia responded to the video, which in less than 24 hours had amassed over 625,000 views, stating it was “committed to keeping our great quality, great value promise” to customers.

“Our Loose Change Menu offers Macca’s favourites for less year round,” a spokesperson told news.com.au.

“Last year, we launched MyMacca’s Rewards, where customers can earn points for every dollar spent on eligible food and drink purchases made with the MyMacca’s app.

“Millions of customers have opted into the program, claiming discounts and rewards. There’s currently two promotions running through the app – 20 percent off orders over $40 and $1 frozen Cokes.”

Hamburgers are part of the restaurant’s ‘Loose Change Menu’ and sold for a reduced price of $2 during promotional hours. Picture: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images/AFP

The video still attracted huge attention, with some referencing the cost of living crisis.

“I’m sorry, but $2.55 for a slice of cheese is insane,” one commented

“I couldn’t believe the cost of the Cheeseburger. I was shocked – this is the end of an era for me and McDonald’s. I will no longer buy a cheeseburger at Macca’s,” another said.

As another stated: “OMG I realised this just a few weeks ago.... my kids now get hamburgers instead of cheeseburgers.”

Others suggested if he was so outraged by the price of a cheeseburger, he should bring his own slices and whack one in a hamburger instead.