When it comes to refreshing beverages, you may think of sweet tea as a quintessentially Southern drink. However, thanks to McDonald’s, this delicious treat is now available nationwide. So, what’s the story behind McDonald’s sweet tea? Let’s dive in and find out everything you need to know.

The Basics of Orange Pekoe Tea
According to McDonald’s website, their sweet tea is made with orange pekoe, which may sound fancy, but it’s simply a grade of black tea sourced from India and Sri Lanka. This tea gets its name from the House of Orange, the royal family of the Netherlands, who received it as a gift from Dutch traders. Orange pekoe is the basic grade of tea consisting of whole tea leaves.
The Sweetness Factor
Now, let’s talk about the sweetness. McDonald’s sweet tea can be shockingly sweet, with a large serving containing 38g of sugar, surpassing the daily intake recommended by the American Heart Association. It’s essential to be mindful of your sugar intake, as excessive consumption can lead to various health issues.
The Calorie Comparison
For those watching their calorie intake, sweet tea can be a better choice than sugary sodas. A small sweet tea from McDonald’s contains only 90 calories, much fewer than a Coke or Minute Maid Orange juice with 150 calories each. While water or diet soda may be the ideal choices, we all crave a sweet treat every once in a while.
Hygiene Concerns
In 2020, an ex-employee of McDonald’s raised concerns about the potential hazards of how sweet tea is prepared in their kitchens. While these claims may be isolated incidents, it’s always a good idea to prioritize hygiene and ensure your beverage is prepared safely.
Surprising Mishaps
There have been a couple of surprising incidents involving McDonald’s sweet tea. In one case, a customer in South Carolina discovered bags of marijuana in his tea, leading to an investigation by the police. In another incident, an Indianapolis police officer fell ill after consuming sweet tea containing a powerful cleaning agent. Despite these isolated occurrences, it’s essential to stay vigilant and report any unusual findings.
McDonald’s Impact on Sweet Tea’s Popularity
McDonald’s played a significant role in making sweet tea a nationwide phenomenon. After introducing it in Southern states in 2006, McDonald’s added sweet tea to its menu across the country two years later. This led to a 23.1% increase in iced tea offerings on menus from 2010 to 2015, according to market research firm Technomic.
The Sweet Success
McDonald’s sweet tea proved to be a hit, especially during the recession in 2008. Priced at just $1, it became a popular choice for customers looking for affordable options. In its first year on the menu, McDonald’s sold over 1.5 billion cups of sweet tea, helping to turn around their financial performance.
Price Petitions
Over the years, the price of sweet tea at McDonald’s has fluctuated. In 2016, a customer started a petition to bring back the $1 price tag, highlighting the impact on families who frequently purchased multiple cups. While the price may vary depending on location and franchise, some believe that making homemade sweet tea is a more cost-effective option.
The Recipe for Homemade Sweet Iced Tea
If you want to recreate the taste of McDonald’s sweet tea at home, it’s simpler than you might think. All you need are tea bags, sugar, water, lemon, and ice. Whether you prefer sweetened or traditionally Southern sweet iced tea, you can find various copycat recipes online. Experiment with different tea brands and find the perfect balance of sweetness to suit your taste.
Marmalade Cafe can be your go-to spot for satisfying your sweet tea cravings. They offer a range of refreshing beverages, including their delightful sweet tea. Visit Marmalade Cafe to explore their menu and experience the true essence of a perfectly brewed sweet tea.
Remember to enjoy your sweet tea in moderation and savor the taste of this beloved beverage. Cheers to McDonald’s for bringing the joy of sweet tea to people across the nation!