Separation of McDonald’s at Disneyland

McDonald’s is no longer “lovin’ it” at Disneyland, “The Happiest Place On Earth.”  Yeah!

Three McDonald’s that are in Disneyland in Anaheim, California, will close as of September 2nd.

Mickey D’s has been promoting healthier eating for kids for the past couple of years.  Despite its claims for healthy options for kids in their food choices, including Happy Meals, the CSPI (Center for Science in the Public Interest) released a study of children’s menus at the 25 largest fast-food (also known as junk food restaurants!!), found that most of McDonald’s meals were too high in calories and trans-fat.  Even McDonald’s proclaimed healthier items were chocked full of sugar and calories.

The Disney Company made a decision in 2006 not to renew a cross-promotional pact with McDonald’s which ended the arrangement with the release of their hit movies “Cars” and “Pirates of the Caribbean.”  One reason is that Disney prides its philosophy on their family-friendly atmosphere and attitude, wanted to distance themselves from fast food and any link to the obesity epidemic in this country especially in children.

I have to give it to Disney by looking past the big bucks of the here and now to look ahead to the health and future of adults and children in the overweight and obesity epidemic.  What a financial venture to tie together cute, cheap toys to movies and sell fast food in the process.  Kids are there at Disneyland, having a great time, in the environment of all things Disney and see their familiar, favorite McDonald’s that sells food and gives toys.  The ultimate kids experience!

I’m not beating up on McDonald’s.  Not at all.  I went there as a kid and have many happy memories of the Golden Arches and Ronald McDonald.  Pre-op, I was an almost daily regular.  McDonald’s can go a long way in making even small changes that will impact the health and awareness of food choices.  McDonald’s is a power and leader in the fast food restaurant industry.  If they make changes, others will follow.

Disney isn’t exactly giving McDonald’s an eviction notice.  There will continue to be some sort of association and presence at Disney parks.  Yet, it is a step forward and Disney sets an example for other family-related parks and companies to follow suit.

Since McDonald’s attempts to introduce health options into their menu, they have some tasy alternatives to a quarterpound of beef with cheese.  Their salads with grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and low fat and fat free dressings are good.  Their grilled chicken breast sandwiches are also great choices especially substituting out the mayo for mustard.  McDonald’s – keep coming up with even more healthy options.  I believe you will see a dramatic increase in sales rather than a decline.

Disney’s vote for families, health, and concern for obesity is to be commended.  It makes me want to go to Disneyland!  Thanks Disney!  I’m lovin’ it!

Believe In Yourself,
Cathy, CLC
Certified Life Coach, Weight Loss Surgery Coach