Can You Eat Dairy-Free at McDonald’s?
McDonald’s is one of the most popular fast-food chains in the world, but if you’re avoiding dairy, you may be wondering what’s safe to eat. While McDonald’s menu is loaded with cheese-covered burgers and creamy sauces, there are still plenty of dairy-free options to enjoy. This guide covers everything dairy-free at McDonald’s in 2025!
Dairy-Free Menu Items at McDonald’s
Here are the current dairy-free options available at McDonald’s. Be sure to check with your local restaurant, as ingredients may vary by location.
Breakfast Menu
| Menu Item | Dairy Free? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Egg McMuffin | ✅ Yes | Order without butter or cheese |
| Bacon Egg McMuffin | ✅ Yes | Order without butter or cheese |
| Sausage McMuffin | ✅ Yes | Order without butter or cheese |
| Sausage McMuffin with Egg | ✅ Yes | Order without butter or cheese |
| Scrambled Eggs | ❌ No | Cooked with butter |
| Hashbrowns | ❌ No | Contains milk |
Note: Hashbrowns have milk! Sad day, we know. Good news, the english muffins don’t have any dairy, however. Be sure to order your breakfast sandwiches without butter.
Lunch & Dinner Menu
| Menu Item | Dairy Free? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hamburger | ✅ Yes | Order without cheese |
| Quarter Pounder | ✅ Yes | Order without cheese |
| Big Mac | ✅ Yes | Order without cheese |
| McChicken | ✅ Yes | |
| Chicken Nuggets | ✅ Yes | Note: These share a fryer with dairy products |
| Side Salad | ✅ Yes | |
| Soft Drinks + Coffee | ✅ Yes |
Sides
| Menu Item | Dairy Free | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fries | ❌ No | Contains milk |
| Apple Slices | ✅ Yes | 100% dairy-free snack |
| Side Salad | ✅ Yes |
Note: McDonald’s fries contain milk! Sad day, we know.
Buns
Are McDonald’s burger buns dairy free?
| Menu Item | Dairy Free | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| English Muffin | ✅ Yes | Order without butter |
| Big Mac Bun | ✅ Yes | |
| Regular Bun | ✅ Yes | |
| Quarter Pounder Bun | ✅ Yes |
Treats
| Menu Item | Dairy Free? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Baked Apple Pie | ✅ Yes | 100% dairy-free |
Sauces
| Menu Item | Dairy Free? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Honey | ✅ Yes | |
| Honey Mustard Sauce | ✅ Yes | |
| Ketchup | ✅ Yes | |
| Light Mayo | ✅ Yes | |
| Mustard | ✅ Yes | |
| Sweet & Sour Sauce | ✅ Yes | |
| Tangy BBQ Sauce | ✅ Yes | |
| Big Mac Sauce | ✅ Yes | |
| Tartar Sauce | ✅ Yes |
Dairy Ingredients to Watch Out For at McDonald’s
Although McDonald’s offers some dairy-free options, there are a few hidden dairy ingredients to be aware of:
Buns – Some locations use butter on toasted buns; always confirm before ordering.
French Fries & Hash Browns – Contain dairy in their seasoning (U.S.).
Fish-Filet – The fish patty contains milk within the U.S., but is made without milk in Canada and the U.K.
McFlurries & Soft Serve – All ice cream products contain dairy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are McDonald’s fries dairy-free?
No, they contain dairy in the seasoning (U.S. locations).
Does McDonald’s have dairy-free desserts?
Yes! The baked apple pie does not contain any dairy. Fresh fruit is also available in a pinch.
Can I get a McDonald’s burger without dairy?
Yes! Order any burger without cheese or sauces.
Are McDonald’s scrambled eggs dairy free?
No, they are not. McDonald’s uses liquid eggs (no dairy), but prepares the eggs with butter on the grill.
Are McDonald’s buns dairy-free?
Most of the burger buns at McDonald’s do not contain any dairy, but verify with an employee. Be sure to order your buns without any butter.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is based on publicly available restaurant allergen information and personal research. Menus and ingredients may change at any time, and cross-contamination is always possible. We strongly recommend verifying with the restaurant directly before ordering if you have dietary restrictions or allergies. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or nutritional advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about food allergies or dietary needs.