In a remarkable move, experts in nutrition and behavioral psychology in Britain called for changing the name of the famous McDonald’s Happy Meal, pointing out that the happiness that the name suggests does not reflect its effect on mental and physical health.
In a statement published on January 22, behavioral psychologist Dr. Heather Mackey explained – according to the Daily Mail – that “the Happy Meal is not as happy as the name claims, as its ingredients negatively affect intestinal health and mood, in addition to its negative environmental effects, perhaps.” “We should call it an Unhappy Meal to better reflect reality.”
Dr Heather shared the call to ban the use of the word ‘happy’ to promote fast food alongside a vegan food brand.
Nutritionist Dr. Frankie Phillips supported these calls, stressing that the ingredients used in meals such as “Happy Meals” lead to severe mood swings. Foods rich in fat, sugar, and salt may lack fiber, which supports gut bacteria that can affect mood and happiness.
Conflicting opinions
Dr. Franke explained that “simple carbohydrates raise blood sugar levels quickly, but this rise does not last long, and is soon followed by a sharp decline, which makes us feel exhausted. Replacing complex carbohydrates rich in fiber, and releasing sugars more slowly into the bloodstream, can help, In stabilizing mood.
Independent nutrition experts told the Daily Mail that these calls are exaggerated, noting that they are a marketing ploy and part of an advertising campaign to promote competitors’ products. Professor Gunther Kühnle, an expert in nutritional sciences at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom, said: “These calls appear to be an exploitation of the campaign against fast foods to promote a competing product.”
Professor Kunle added that the Happy Meal from McDonald’s may contain certain health benefits, especially when choosing foods such as carrots, or choosing water instead of soft drinks.