McDonald’s Korea removes tomatoes from menus due to supply shortage

McDonald's Bacon Tomato Deluxe burger. McDonald's Korea has temporarily removed tomatoes from some of its burgers due to supply shortages./McDonald's Korea

Most McDonald’s locations in South Korea have removed tomatoes from their menus as of Oct. 15, citing supply shortages caused by extreme heat. The fast-food chain has temporarily stopped offering tomatoes in 11 of its burger items due to the impact of the heatwave on tomato production.

“We are experiencing significant difficulties in tomato supply due to poor growth caused by the prolonged heat this summer,” McDonald’s Korea said in a notice posted at stores and on delivery apps. The company added that some locations are offering free drink coupons when tomatoes are unavailable.

A McDonald’s Korea representative said, “We source tomatoes through our suppliers, but most are struggling with supply disruptions.”

Tomato prices have surged amid poor harvests caused by heat and reduced sunlight. According to the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp., the retail price of tomatoes was 13,170 won ($9.70) per kilogram on Oct. 15, a more than 30% increase from a week earlier, and a 65% rise compared to the same period last year.