Earlier this year McDonald’s faced criticism when the receipt from a location in Connecticut went viral for its hefty pricing. An $18 Big Mac combo just made matters worse.

This sparked a debate about the reasonable cost of a meal at a fast food restaurant.

Reports indicate that fast food prices have risen nearly 28% from 2019 to 2023. While multiple factors contribute to this increase, one thing is clear: consumers are frustrated.

“Eating at home has become more affordable,” Chris Kempczinski, McDonald’s chief executive, mentioned during an earnings call. “The battleground is certainly with that low-income consumer.”

In an effort to regain customers, McDonald’s plans to introduce a new $5 meal deal.

According to The Wall Street Journal, this $5 deal will include a McChicken or McDouble, four-piece chicken nuggets, fries, and a drink of choice. The promotion is set to begin on June 25 and will last about a month.

Although the deal has not yet started, some customers remain skeptical.

“$5 meal for only 1 month? No thanks! You want to lure us in and hope we’ll stay and pay high prices? Not a chance!”

“McDonald’s solution to inflation: Turn the dollar menu into a $5 Meal Deal.”

“Not long ago, the McChicken was on the dollar menu. They should bring the dollar menu back.”

“Consumers continue to be more discerning with their spending as they face elevated prices in daily expenses, putting pressure on the industry,” Kempczinski stated during an April call. “It’s crucial that we keep affordability at the forefront for our customers.”

Would a $5 meal deal make you choose McDonald’s over another restaurant or even eating at home? Share your thoughts in the comments below.