The hidden cost of your McDonald’s burger

How McDonald's is linked to deforestation 

McDonald's sources massive amounts of beef and soy – both of which are heavily tied to deforestation. The Amazon rainforest and other crucial ecosystems are being cleared at alarming rates to make way for cattle ranching and soy farming, much of which is used to feed livestock in McDonald's supply chain. 

• JBS and beef production: McDonald’s beef suppliers include JBS, the world’s largest meat processor, which has been repeatedly linked to illegal deforestation in the Amazon. Reports have shown that JBS sources cattle from illegally cleared land, further driving habitat loss and climate change. 

• Soy as animal feed: The soy used to feed animals comes from land that has been cleared, which harms wildlife and local communities. JBS is a major buyer of soy, further entrenching McDonald’s in deforestation concerns. 

• Supply chain secrecy: McDonald's claims to have sustainability policies, but investigations have found gaps in its enforcement, allowing deforestation-linked meat and soy to enter its supply chain. 

The environmental and ethical cost 

• Loss of biodiversity: The destruction of forests leads to habitat loss for species such as jaguars, sloths, and countless bird species. 

• Carbon emissions: Deforestation releases massive amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂), which worsens climate change. 

• Displacement of indigenous communities: Many local and indigenous communities are forced from their land to make way for industrial farming. 

What needs to change 

McDonald’s has the power to move toward a deforestation-free supply chain, but stronger commitments and real accountability are needed. Transparency, better traceability of beef and soy sources, and support for plant-based alternatives are crucial steps. 

How you can take action 

• Reduce your meat consumption: Choose plant-based meals. 
• Go to local, independent restaurants: Choose restaurants that are local and source their produce sustainably. You can always ask them for more details when you visit.  
• Support sustainable brands: Look for companies with verified deforestation-free supply chains. 

Rainforests and the wildlife and local communities living within them should not be the price we pay for a fast-food burger. We need to make informed choices that can help protect the planet and push large restaurant chains like McDonald's toward real change.