FoodScore
0/ 100
Avoidmeat· 1 PATTY

McDonald's Quarter Pounder With Cheese

With a FoodScore of 21/100, the Quarter Pounder with Cheese is categorized as "Avoid" due to its high content of trans fat and saturated fat, alongside its ultra-processed nature.

  • This food scores 21/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
  • It contains 0.88g of trans fat per 100g, a type of fat dietary guidelines recommend minimizing.
  • The Quarter Pounder with Cheese is a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed.
  • A 100g serving provides 17.7g of protein, contributing to daily protein needs.
  • It contains 7.96g of saturated fat per 100g, which is a significant amount.
  • Scores -39 points above the meat category average (60/100 across 47 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
17.7g
35% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
434mg
19% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (17.7g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (8.0g)-9
Sodium (434mg)-1
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 21

The McDonald's Quarter Pounder with Cheese receives a low FoodScore of 21/100, primarily driven by significant penalties. The most impactful penalty comes from the presence of trans fat, which at 0.88g per 100g, incurs a substantial -20 point deduction due to its strong association with adverse health outcomes. Additionally, its ultra-processed classification (NOVA 4) leads to a -10 point penalty, reflecting dietary guidelines that encourage minimizing such foods. The high saturated fat content of 7.96g per 100g also contributes a -9 point penalty. While it does receive some bonuses, such as +10 points for its 17.7g of protein and +4 points for micronutrients like iron (13% DV) and Vitamin A (98% DV), these are not enough to offset the significant deductions. To achieve a higher score, the product would need a drastic reduction or elimination of trans fats and saturated fats, and ideally, a less processed formulation.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in mcdonald's quarter pounder with cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth

The Quarter Pounder with Cheese provides a notable amount of protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and growth. With 17.7g of protein per 100g, it contributes significantly to the daily protein requirements that support tissue repair and synthesis. Protein is a macronutrient crucial for various bodily functions, and adequate intake is emphasized by dietary guidelines. While it offers protein, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile of the food when choosing protein sources.

Contributes to Iron Intake

This food contributes to daily iron intake, a mineral vital for oxygen transport and energy production. A 100g serving provides 2.39mg of iron, which is 13% of the Daily Value. Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Ensuring sufficient iron intake is important to prevent iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue. However, it's advisable to obtain iron from a variety of nutrient-dense sources.

Source of Vitamin A

The Quarter Pounder with Cheese is a source of Vitamin A, providing 98% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for vision, immune function, and cell growth. It plays a role in maintaining healthy skin and mucous membranes. While this food offers a high percentage of the daily recommended Vitamin A, it's important to balance this with other nutrients and consider the overall dietary context, as Vitamin A is also readily available in many fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

Provides Calcium for Bone Health

This food offers some calcium, which is important for bone health and other physiological processes. A 100g serving contains 71mg of calcium, contributing 5% of the Daily Value. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is fundamental for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays roles in nerve transmission, muscle function, and hormone secretion. While it provides some calcium, it should not be considered a primary source given its overall nutritional profile.

How to eat it

The McDonald's Quarter Pounder with Cheese is typically consumed as a standalone meal or part of a combo in a fast-food setting. It's a convenience food often chosen for its taste and quick availability, rather than its nutritional density. Due to its nutritional profile, it is generally not recommended as a regular staple in a balanced diet. Portion control is key, as even occasional consumption should be mindful.

Consider a smaller portion size or sharing to reduce intake of saturated and trans fats.
Pair with a side salad or apple slices instead of fries to add fiber and micronutrients.
Limit frequency of consumption to occasional treats rather than a regular meal choice to manage overall fat and sodium intake.
Be mindful of additional toppings or sauces, which can further increase sodium and calorie content.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution with the Quarter Pounder with Cheese relates to its high content of saturated fat and trans fat, which are associated with an increased risk of heart disease when consumed regularly. Individuals managing cholesterol levels or at risk for cardiovascular issues should limit intake. Its high sodium content also warrants caution for those with high blood pressure or individuals monitoring sodium intake. As an ultra-processed food, it generally lacks the fiber and diverse micronutrients found in whole foods, which is a consideration for overall dietary quality.

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Reader questions
Is the McDonald's Quarter Pounder with Cheese healthy?
With a FoodScore of 21/100, the Quarter Pounder with Cheese is categorized as "Avoid." It is high in trans fat and saturated fat, and classified as ultra-processed, which are factors that detract from its nutritional value. While it provides protein and some iron, its overall profile is not conducive to a healthy diet when consumed regularly.
Is the Quarter Pounder with Cheese good for weight loss?
The Quarter Pounder with Cheese is generally not recommended for weight loss due to its calorie density and high fat content. A 100g serving contains 274 calories and 20.35g of total fat. Foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, and are ultra-processed, typically do not support sustainable weight management efforts.
Is the Quarter Pounder with Cheese ultra-processed?
Yes, the McDonald's Quarter Pounder with Cheese is classified as a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed. This classification indicates that it contains ingredients and additives not typically found in home kitchens, and has undergone significant industrial processing.
How can I make a healthier burger at home?
To make a healthier burger at home, opt for lean ground beef or a plant-based patty. Use whole wheat buns, and load up on fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and onion. Control sodium by limiting processed cheese and sauces, and consider making your own condiments to reduce added sugar and unhealthy fats.
What are some healthier alternatives to the Quarter Pounder with Cheese?
Healthier alternatives include grilled chicken sandwiches, salads with lean protein, or homemade burgers using lean ground meat or plant-based options. Focus on meals rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein to provide more fiber and essential nutrients while reducing intake of saturated and trans fats.
Does the Quarter Pounder with Cheese contain trans fat?
Yes, the Quarter Pounder with Cheese contains trans fat. A 100g serving has 0.88g of trans fat, which is a type of fat that dietary guidelines recommend minimizing due to its negative impact on cardiovascular health. The presence of trans fat is a significant factor in its low FoodScore.
How much protein is in a Quarter Pounder with Cheese?
A 100g serving of the Quarter Pounder with Cheese provides 17.7g of protein. This contributes to daily protein needs, which are essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. While it offers protein, it's important to consider the other nutritional components of the food.

Explore more

CategoryAll meat & poultry →Head-to-headMcDonald's Quarter Pounder With Cheese vs. Chicken thigh (skinless, cooked) →Head-to-headMcDonald's Quarter Pounder With Cheese vs. Eggs (whole) →Head-to-headMcDonald's Quarter Pounder With Cheese vs. Ham Sliced →Head-to-headMcDonald's Quarter Pounder With Cheese vs. Pork Belly Cooked →Fits dietCarnivore diet →

Data & references

Sources: USDA FoodData Central (Branded, fdcId 484106)Updated 2026-04-20