Why McDonald's Calls Its Frozen Dessert Drinks 'Shakes' Instead of 'Milkshakes'
Have you ever noticed that when you order frozen desserts from McDonald's, you're not given a milkshake but a 'shake' instead? This article delves into the reasons behind this choice, exploring the terminology, ingredients, and practicality involved.
The Naming Conundrum: 'Shake' vs. 'Milkshake'
It's a valid question why McDonald's doesn't simply call its frozen dessert drinks 'milkshakes.' The choice of terminology is a strategic and practical decision that reflects the ingredients and the brand's operational efficiency. The primary reasons include legal and practical considerations, as well as the use of unique ingredients.
Legal and Historical Context
The name 'shake' is a play on words and a nod to the broader category of milkshakes. In a sense, it is shorthand for a milkshake that is made with milk, ice cream, and flavorings. McDonald's likely decided to use this term to fit within their established naming conventions and to avoid legal complications.
A true milkshake is defined as a beverage consisting of ice cream, milk, and flavorings. The ingredient list for McDonald's frozen dessert drinks may not contain milk or sufficient cream and butterfat content to meet the legal definition of ice cream. Therefore, to accurately reflect the ingredients, McDonald's chooses to call their product a 'shake' rather than a 'milkshake.'
Promotional and Branding Considerations
Branding and marketing also play a significant role in the naming decision. McDonald's is known for its efficiency and speed. Pointing out in-store abbreviations, such as 'sauces' instead of 'sausage,' highlights the brand's emphasis on speed and convenience. The same principle applies to their frozen dessert drinks. By using the term 'shake,' McDonald's maintains consistency with their naming conventions, making it easier for customers to remember and order.
Ingredients and Composition
The ingredients used in McDonald's frozen dessert drinks are a mix of dairy-like products and flavorings. Specifically, the 'shake' mix primarily contains a dairy substitute rather than actual milk. This decision reflects the company's commitment to optimizing cost and maintaining product quality. While McDonald's has not explicitly confirmed this, it is common in the fast-food industry to use dairy substitutes to meet taste preferences while keeping costs down.
Moreover, this choice in ingredients aligns with the company's broader strategy of offering various dessert options without the need for premium ingredients. The McFlurry and sundaes, too, do not include the term 'ice cream' in their names or descriptions for the same reason. This approach helps maintain a consistent flavor and texture across different products while adhering to the legal and practical standards.
Conclusion
McDonald's decision to call its frozen dessert drinks 'shakes' rather than 'milkshakes' is a combination of legal, practical, and brand considerations. The term reflects the unique ingredients and the brand's commitment to speed and efficiency. While 'shake' may be a slight departure from the traditional milkshake, it accurately describes the product while remaining true to McDonald's naming conventions.