Family and Consumer Sciences teacher Mrs. Starkey, as well as her Healthy Eating and Culinary 2 classes, made a healthy version of a McDonald’s Big Mac. They replaced unhealthy ingredients and additives. Lots of students even agreed it was better than a genuine McDonald’s Big Mac.
The ground beef is from a local farmer. Farm raised beef contains higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and antioxidants, so it is much healthier than the beef McDonald’s uses. Students also could control how much salt and fat were added.
“[I thought of the assignment because] fast food is very popular amongst teenagers due to the ease, cost, and marketing targeted to that age group. This was a way to pique their interest with something familiar and show that they are capable of creating good tasting food that is a healthier version at home,¨ Starkey said.
The students seemed to enjoy the multi-step challenge that comes along with making a Big Mac. For example, students made the Big Mac sauce the day before to allow the flavors to blend together for preparation. Students said it tasted better than a Big Mac. It had the same flavor profile, but the ingredients being fresh made it taste better.
The Tiger Times 
Posted on May 20, 2026 by thetigertimes
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