McDonald’s Japan completely eliminates paper straws with new drink design

McDonald’s Japan is getting rid of paper straws. They’ve redesigned their drink cups to be safer and easier for customers to use.

Paper straws have sparked a lot of debate among fast-food fans. Unlike plastic straws, they can fall apart in drinks, sometimes affecting the taste.

President Trump ended a US initiative promoting paper straws with an executive order. However, other countries are taking different approaches to environmental sustainability while also considering what consumers want.

Donald Trump is signing an executive order to end the push for paper straws

— TopMob (@TopMob) February 7, 2025

McDonald’s Japan announced a change on October 27th that’s sparked mixed reactions from fans, though most agree it’s a better outcome than what they feared.

McDonald’s Japan unveils new lids and discontinues paper straws

McDonald’s announced it’s removing paper straws from its 3,000 locations in Japan because customers haven’t been happy with them.

Okay, so about ten months ago, McDonald’s Japan got a lot of heat online. Apparently, someone posted a picture showing one of their paper straws…inside a plastic bag! It just looked super ironic and people were quick to call them out on it.

The restaurant announced that starting November 19th, it will be switching to a new lid design that makes straws – both paper and plastic – unnecessary.

These new lids are created using recycled plastic bottles, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability. They’re also designed for easier drinking and to help prevent spills when you’re out and about.

The fast-food chain is also switching to takeout bags made from a plant-based material that’s 95% renewable.

Fans have had a varied reaction so far. Although a lot of people like the new lids better than paper straws, many still prefer the restaurant to go back to using plastic.

Someone commented that while something seems great in theory, in practice it’s weak and unsatisfying, like getting only melted ice in your drink.

People were excited and said, “Great! If it works for coffee and tea, it should work just as well with soda and other soft drinks.”

One customer suggested McDonald’s switch to these lids, explaining it would reduce costs and eliminate the need for paper straws, benefiting everyone involved.

McDonald’s Japan has delighted customers before. Just this year, they released a special menu inspired by the Street Fighter video game, complete with themed cups.

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2025-10-27 22:20