McDonald’s India (West & South), run by Westlife Foodworld, just rolled out something new for health-conscious eaters—a customizable protein slice that can be added to any burger. Dubbed the ‘Protein Plus Range’, this launch puts the spotlight on flexibility, allowing customers to amp up their protein intake without giving up their go-to burger flavours.
At the heart of this range is a 100% vegetarian protein slice, made with soy and pea, that adds 5 grams of protein per piece. And here’s the game-changer: diners can stack one, two, or even three slices onto their burgers. It’s a move that shakes things up in the QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) world, where fixed menus have long ruled the roost.
What makes this even more impressive is how effortlessly the slice fits into existing favourites. Toss it into a McSpicy Paneer, and you’re looking at 25.29g of protein. Add it to a McChicken and get 20.66g. Even a McVeggie clocks in at 15.24g, and the humble McAloo Tikki jumps to 13.5g—all without changing the flavour fans know and love.
The slice isn’t just a marketing gimmick. It’s the result of a collaboration with the CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), a government-backed institute that knows a thing or two about food science. It’s onion- and garlic-free, contains no artificial colours or flavours, and is designed to fit into a variety of dietary preferences, especially vegetarian diets common in India.
“We’ve always tried to give our customers more room to choose,” said Akshay Jatia, CEO of Westlife Foodworld. “This time, it’s about letting them take charge of how much protein goes into their meal—without losing out on taste. We’re excited about what this means for fast food in India.”
This isn’t McDonald’s first scientific collaboration. They previously worked with CSIR-CFTRI to develop their Multi-Millet Bun, and this new partnership builds on that success.
Dr. Sridevi Annapurna Singh, Director at CFTRI, said, “After the work we did on the millet bun, teaming up again with McDonald’s was a natural next step. This protein slice is another example of what can happen when science and food innovation come together.”
By blending research with everyday dining, McDonald’s India is clearly aiming to strike a new balance—comfort food that doesn’t skimp on nutrition. And with more diners paying attention to what’s in their food, the timing couldn’t be better.
