The McDonald’s McRib is back in Canada after 10 years — here’s what a dietitian says about it

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.

Fast food giant McDonald’s is bringing back the McRib, that gained cult acclaim over the last three decade (PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP/Getty Images)

McDonald’s Canada has officially brought back an old favourite to its menu — the iconic McRib sandwich.

After a 10-year hiatus, the item will once again be available at the chain’s Canadian restaurants, garnering mixed reactions from potential patrons.

Some social media users have taken to X (aka Twitter) to express their excitement.

“One of the most important days in the past 10 years,” one person quipped.

“Best thing [McDonald’s Canada] has done in years!” another added.

The McRib, featuring a boneless pork patty drenched in tangy BBQ sauce, slivered onions and pickles in a toasted homestyle bun, has garnered a cult following over the years, earning its status as a beloved classic.

Alyssa Buetikofer, vice president at McDonald’s Canada, said in a release the company “received thousands of inquiries on social media from very passionate Canadian McRib fans asking to bring it back here.” She added it is “truly a fan favourite.”

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However, not everyone is a fan. One X user said he’s “unconvinced that the McRib should even be considered a food fit for human consumption.”

Another said it’s the “worst burger ever created.”

But, is the burger actually good — or bad — for you? Yahoo Canada spoke with registered dietitian Abbey Sharp, who weighed in on the trending relaunch.

Here’s what you need to know.

Nutritional breakdown of the McRib

The McRib sandwich contains:

These nutritional values put it in a comparable range to other McDonald’s menu items, such as the Quarter Pounder with cheese (520 kcal, 42 grams of carbs, 30 grams of protein, 26 grams of fat, 8 grams sugar and 1140 mg sodium).

Is it healthy?

Dietitian Sharp said the McRib does provide a decent amount of protein, “I recommend between 20-35 grams of protein per meal, so it’s in that sweet spot.” However, it also comes with “a lot of refined carbs, saturated fat, sugar and salt, and it skips out on satiating fibre and healthy fats.”

The result is that one sandwich is likely not very satiating, so you may be hungry again soon after, which can increase the risk of overeating and weight gain.

Sharp advises that while there’s no harm in enjoying the McRib occasionally, it’s best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.

Its less desirable nutrients mean it is likely “not very satiating,” meaning you might need to eat again soon after your meal. Overindulging in such foods can increase the risk of overeating and weight gain, Sharp warned.

Are there better alternatives to the McRib?

For those concerned about the nutritional quality of the McRib, Sharp recommends opting for simpler, healthier alternatives when dining at McDonald’s.

“When it comes to fast food, simple is always best,” Sharp said. Her favourite picks at the popular chain include:

Should you enjoy the McRib guilt-free?

Sharp emphasized that guilt should not be associated with food choices, regardless of their nutritional profile.

It’s perfectly acceptable to enjoy the occasional indulgence, such as the McRib, as part of a well-rounded diet. However, moderation is key.

“There is little to no harm in enjoying a McRib (or anything from McDonald’s) from time to time. But I would consider this an occasional treat, not a regular lunch fixture,” Sharp explained.

While the return of the McRib may be met with excitement from fans, it’s essential for Canadians to be mindful of their dietary choices. By making informed decisions and balancing indulgences with healthier options, individuals can enjoy their favorite treats while still prioritizing their health and well-being.

Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.