OAK BROOK, IL – Having secured a global footprint, and a consumer base of billions of eaters, it looks as though some fast food chains are looking to establish themselves as more than just a “fast food joint” with a new focus on the upscale use of produce. 

McDonald’s is testing its new Pesto Mozzarella Melt in Southern California markets, looking to ensnare the elevated palates of consumers with real basil slathering the buns of its newest product. Made into a pesto cream cheese, the sandwich also rounds out the chicken flavor with baby spinach, kale, and sliced tomato.

“Our culinary team is always looking to appeal to our customers’ tastes and preferences with new ingredients,” said a McDonalds spokesperson, according to Eater. 

The food retail chain could be onto something, as Eater reported that some internet reviewers of the new sandwich are raving that the craveable flavor of the new high-end creation is due to the use of its fresh produce, especially the “very rich” flavor of the basil pesto sauce. 

McDonald’s isn’t the only fast food chain looking to gain more sales through the allure of fresh produce, as Wendy’s recently harnessed the flavor profile of truffles to pilot a Truffle Bacon Cheeseburger and Bacon Truffle Fries in Tennessee and Massachusetts.

Although neither chain has stated whether these tested products will be brought into a longterm appearance on menus, CNBC reported that these limited-time offers and food experiments could be a guaranteed way to snag new consumers.

Will the power of basil have done its trick for the McDonald’s portfolio? As foodservice companies continue to put produce through new and innovative paces, AndNowUKnow will report on their subsequent impact on the industry. 

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