For years, McDonald’s coffee has been a go-to option for millions of people. It’s cheap, fast, and available almost everywhere. But after learning what many customers — and even employees — have reported, I’ve decided I won’t be ordering it again.
Here’s what changed my mind.
1. The Machines Are Rarely Cleaned Properly
One of the biggest concerns involves coffee and beverage machines. Former fast-food workers have repeatedly revealed that:
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Coffee machines can go weeks without deep cleaning
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Milk lines may not be flushed properly
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Residue, mold, and bacteria can build up inside hidden parts
Because customers never see the inside of these machines, they often assume everything is spotless — but that’s not always the case.
2. Old Coffee Is Sometimes Reheated
During slow hours, coffee may sit in warming containers for long periods. Some customers and insiders claim that:
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Coffee isn’t always freshly brewed
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Old batches may be reheated instead of replaced
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Taste and quality suffer — and so can safety
While policies may say otherwise, real-world practices don’t always match the rulebook.
3. Milk and Creamer Issues
McDonald’s coffee drinks often rely on milk, cream, or flavored syrups. Problems can arise when:
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Milk containers aren’t stored at the correct temperature
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Expired dairy products aren’t discarded immediately
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Cross-contamination occurs during busy rushes
For people sensitive to dairy or with weak immune systems, this can lead to stomach discomfort or worse.