Filet-O-Fish

McDonald's Filet-O-Fish sandwich (1)

Filet-O-Fish is a fish sandwich sold by the international fast food chain McDonald's. It was created in 1962 by Lou Groen, a McDonald's franchise owner in Cincinnati, Ohio, in response to falling hamburger sales on Fridays resulting from the Roman Catholic practice of abstaining from meat on Fridays. The Filet-O-Fish has since become a popular menu item worldwide, serving as an alternative for customers seeking non-meat options.

History

The inception of the Filet-O-Fish dates back to 1962 when Lou Groen noticed a significant drop in sales on Fridays due to the large Catholic population in his area observing meat abstinence on Fridays during Lent. To address this, Groen devised a fish-based sandwich as an alternative. After presenting his idea to Ray Kroc, the CEO of McDonald's at the time, the Filet-O-Fish was introduced to the menu after a successful trial. It was the first addition to McDonald's original menu and marked the beginning of the chain's menu diversification.

Composition

The Filet-O-Fish consists of a steamed bun, a deep-fried fish patty, half a slice of cheese, and tartar sauce. Initially, the sandwich included a whole slice of cheese, but this was later reduced to half a slice. The fish patty is primarily made from Alaskan pollock or hoki, though the specific type of fish used can vary by market. The sandwich's simple yet distinctive composition has remained largely unchanged since its introduction.

Nutritional Information

The nutritional content of the Filet-O-Fish can vary by location due to differences in serving sizes and ingredients. Generally, the sandwich is considered a lower-calorie option compared to beef-based burgers on the menu, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. However, it is still a fast-food item, and consumers are advised to consider the overall nutritional profile, including its sodium and fat content, as part of a balanced diet.

Cultural Impact

The Filet-O-Fish has had a notable cultural impact, especially within communities observing Lent, where it has become a staple during the Lenten season. Its introduction also set a precedent for fast-food chains to offer alternative menu items catering to diverse dietary practices and preferences. The sandwich's enduring popularity underscores the demand for seafood options in the fast-food industry.

See Also

• McDonald's
• Fast food
• Fish sandwich
• Lent