McDonald’s is one of the most popular fast-food chains in the world, serving millions of customers every day.
Over the years, they’ve adapted to changing food trends, introducing items like the McPlant burger in select locations.
However, when it comes to vegan options in the U.S., McDonald’s still falls short—especially with its breakfast menu.
If you were hoping to grab hash browns as a quick vegan-friendly option, you’re out of luck. In the United States, McDonald’s hash browns are not vegan.
Why Aren’t McDonald’s Hash Browns Vegan in the U.S.?
It might seem surprising that something as simple as hash browns isn’t vegan. After all, hash browns are just potatoes, right?
The problem lies in how McDonald’s flavors and prepares them.
1. Beef Flavoring
McDonald’s adds natural beef flavoring to its hash browns—just like it does with its French fries. This flavoring contains dairy derivatives, making both items unsuitable for vegans.
Even if the ingredients were vegan, cross-contamination is an issue. McDonald’s hash browns are fried in the same oil as meat products, further making them non-vegan.
Are McDonald’s Hash Browns Vegan in Other Countries?
Interestingly, McDonald’s hash browns in some countries are vegan.
For example, McDonald’s UK confirms that their hash browns are completely vegan, even featuring a vegan-approved label.
This inconsistency raises the question: Why is McDonald’s in the U.S. still using animal-derived ingredients when other locations have already made the switch?
While the exact reason isn’t clear, it likely comes down to business decisions, supplier contracts, and market demand.
The good news? As veganism continues to grow, there’s hope that U.S. locations will eventually follow suit.
Are There Any Vegan Breakfast Options at McDonald’s?
Since hash browns and French fries are off the menu for vegans, what can you actually eat at McDonald’s?
While options are extremely limited, here are a few plant-based choices:
- Fruit Slices – A simple but reliable option
- Maple Oatmeal (Without Cream or Milk) – Can be made vegan if ordered without dairy
- Black Coffee or Iced Coffee (Without Milk or Cream) – Some locations may offer plant-based milk substitutes
These options aren’t particularly filling, but they’re worth keeping in mind if you find yourself at McDonald’s and need something small.
Will McDonald’s Ever Offer Vegan Hash Browns in the U.S.?
There is some hope for the future. McDonald’s has already started testing the McPlant burger in select U.S. locations after its success in Europe and the UK.
If the demand for vegan fast food continues to rise, McDonald’s may eventually update its hash brown recipe to match its European counterparts.
For now, however, McDonald’s hash browns in the U.S. remain off-limits for vegans.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a vegan looking for a breakfast option at McDonald’s, hash browns are not a suitable choice in the U.S. due to beef flavoring and dairy ingredients.
However, in some countries—like the UK—McDonald’s hash browns are certified vegan. Hopefully, the U.S. will follow suit in the future.
Until then, vegan options at McDonald’s remain extremely limited, with only fruit slices, modified oatmeal, and black coffee being safe choices.
