McDonald’s India has sparked controversy with the launch of new “no onion, no garlic” burgers in observance of Savan, a sacred month in the Hindu calendar dedicated to Lord Shiva. The fast-food chain introduced modified McCheese and McAloo Tikki Burgers to align with the dietary restrictions observed during this period, which excludes meat, fish, eggs, onion, and garlic.
McDonald’s India explained in a blog post that the move aims to support customers who follow these dietary practices, noting that the menu adjustment is meant to cater to diverse Indian communities.
However, the new menu items have not been universally accepted. The introduction has faced criticism, particularly on social media, where a food vlogger’s Instagram Reel showcasing the burgers ignited debate. Critics argue that consuming fast food during Savan may contradict the sacred nature of the month.