McDonald’s Quarter Pounder Beefs Up a Bit

The McDonald’s Quarter Pounder has gained a little weight.

The classic hamburger now weighs 4.25 ounces before cooking. That’s an increase of about 6 percent from its namesake weight of 4 ounces, an exact quarter-pound — although that weight shrank to 2.8 ounces after cooking.

The beefed-up Quarter Pounder follows an increase in beef prices, but it remains to be seen whether the Quarter Pounder’s price tag will increase too. CNBC reports that management will have to make that call.

The newly resized burger also follows the public company’s May announcement of a “reset” following slumping sales.

Steve Easterbrook, McDonald’s president and chief executive officer, stated at the time:

“As we look to shape McDonald’s future as a modern, progressive burger company, our priorities are threefold — driving operational growth, returning excitement to our brand and unlocking financial value.”

Other changes announced since May include a simplified drive-thru menu designed to speed up the drive-thru line.

McDonald’s has received criticism for having long waits there. A 2013 study by QSR Magazine revealed that the fast-food chain’s average drive-thru wait was 3 minutes, 9 seconds — its longest average wait time in at least 15 years.

Also, last month, McDonald’s returned its Lobster Roll to the menu for restaurants in parts of New England and Canada after a decade-long absence. Featuring North Atlantic lobster, it costs $8.99.

Beyond the menu, other changes McDonald’s has made this year include the resurrection of the Hamburglar mascot as well as wage and benefit improvements.

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