McDonald’s Launches Eco-Friendly McFlurry Cups and New Mini Size To Sweeten Sustainability Goals

Get ready, McFlurry fans — McDonald's is shaking things up with not one, but two exciting updates! As of September 10, you'll not only be able to enjoy your favorite creamy treat in a more eco-friendly cup, but you'll also have a brand-new, perfectly petite Mini McFlurry size to choose from. So, let’s hope the ice cream machines are working come next week. Here’s what to know about the McDonalds McFlurry redesign and their larger push towards sustainability.

A history of the McDonald's McFlurry

First introduced in 1997, the McFlurry has grown to become one of McDonald’s profitable products. Original flavors included the classic Oreo cookie, along with Heath, Nestle Crunch, M&M’s and Butterfinger. Since then, you may have seen some buzzy new flavors pop up around the world, from the Grandma McFlurry to the Lotus Biscoff available in Spain.

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What is the McDonald's Mini McFlurry?

In response to customer demand for more portion options, McDonald’s is rolling out a Mini McFlurry, clocking in a 240 calories, perfect for a quick treat without the guilt. It will be half the size as the Regular McFlurry.

“Got a friend who always wants ‘just a bite’?” McDonald’s wrote in a press release. “Instead of grabbing an extra spoon, you can grab them a Mini McFlurry of their own. Or maybe you’re looking for a quick afternoon pick-me-up... the Mini McFlurry is perfect for you, too.”

While it’s new to the U.S., the Mini McFlurry has already gained popularity in other markets like the U.K. So whether you’re a fan of classic Oreo or the seasonal Stroopwafel, now you can enjoy your favorite flavors in a more snackable size.

The McDonald's McFlurry redesign

McDonald's has set some ambitious sustainability goals for the next year. The company aims to source 100 percent of its packaging from renewable, recycled or certified sources by 2025. The new cardboard four-flap McFlurry cups are part of this effort, replacing the old plastic lids with a design that reduces waste. Currently, the four-flap cups are already in use in countries like Canada and Indonesia.

“Packaging updates like this matter,” chief impact officer of North America Michael Gonda said in a statement. “Not only is this a fun new way for our U.S. fans to enjoy the McFlurry; we're also moving one step closer to fulfilling our packaging and waste commitments.”

This change comes less than a year after McDonald’s first initiated efforts, notably switching to a smaller, reusable McFlurry spoon. In October, 2023, it announced that the recognizable hollow spoon, which doubled as a spindle to help mix in the toppings, was being phased out.

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McDonald's recent sales slump calls for innovation

Interestingly, this move towards sustainability and innovation comes on the heels of some disappointing news for the Golden Arches. For the first time in over three years, McDonald’s reported a dip in global sales, falling one percent in the April to June period. The reason? People want to spend their dollar better. Inflation has led many low-income consumers to shy away from higher-priced items at fast food chains (like the McGriddle ).

By rolling out new products like the mini McFlurry and focusing on sustainability, McDonald’s is clearly banking on the idea that smart, consumer-friendly options are the future of fast food.

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