MCDONALD’S has sparked fury among parents across the UK after a shortage of a key Happy Meal item has left families high and dry.
Hungry families heading to the Golden Arches have been left baffled and angry after being told they cannot order water with their children’s meals, with shortages reported up and down the country.
Social media has gone into meltdown, with confusion spreading among customers who fear the chain has implemented a “new policy” to ban water for kids.
However, The Sun can reveal that this is not a deliberate exclusion, but a temporary supply issue that has left stores out of stock.
It means, the kid-sized 250ml bottles, a staple of the famous red box, are facing shortages across the chain’s sites.
Furious diners have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to blast the chain, with many parents desperate for a healthy drink alternative for their little ones.
One said on X.com: “McDonaldsUK new policy NO WATER for children- disgraceful!”
Another confused customer in Uttoxeter demanded answers after being denied water on three separate trips.
They said: “Why in the UK Uttoxeter store in the last 3 visits no water available with the Happy Meal?
“You have the normal bottle in stock why not just supply those every time I’m told the staff can’t authorise it? Poor service.”
While customers are fuming, McDonald’s workers have taken to Reddit to verify the chaos, confirming the issue is widespread.
One staff member revealed: “Our store has been out of the small waters for two weeks or so, weird having to explain to regular customers that we’re still out.
“Manager told me its a nation wide thing apparently? You guys stores not stocking it at the moment?”
Another worker added: “No water at my store either, was wondering why we didn’t have any.”
A third claimed the supply chain woes extend beyond just the kids’ bottles, stating: “Nestle are having supply issues. We have not had Happy Meal water for a few weeks, and the normal water is in a different pack size.”
The McDonald’s UK website currently displays a warning that Nestlé Pure Life water in 250ml and 500ml is “Not available in all Restaurants“.
However, the fast food chain has moved to quell the rumours of a “water ban,” confirming to The Sun that stock should return soon.
A spokesperson said: “We’re currently experiencing a temporary supply issue, which means some of our restaurants are out of stock of 250ml bottled water normally included in Happy Meals.
“Customers are being offered tap water as an alternative, as well as the usual other Happy Meal drink options.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and are working hard to resolve the issue.
“250ml bottled water is expected to return to our Happy Meal menu later this week.”
In November, McDonald’s scrapped a Happy Meal staple despite its status as a fan favourite.
The chain ditched its popular Fish Fingers Happy Meal and some parents were left far from happy.
One parent said: “That’s pants. My kid loves the fish fingers.”
Despite its loyal following, a source told The Sun that fish fingers were not selling in big enough numbers to stay on the menu.
In place of the dish, bosses introduced a new-to-the-UK McFish Happy Meal, which is similar to the Filet-O-Fish but served without tartar sauce.
The chain also added Mayo Chicken as a Happy Meal option, featuring crispy coated chicken with lettuce and cool mayo in a soft bun.
McDonald’s said the changes were part of an effort to refresh its children’s menu and to focus on items with broader appeal.
Some parents have welcomed the new choices, while others say the fish fingers should return.
How to save at McDonald’s
YOU could end up being charged more for a McDonald’s meal based solely on the McDonald’s restaurant you choose.
Research by The Sun found a Big Mac meal can be up to 30% cheaper at restaurants just two miles apart from each other.
You can pick up a Big Mac and fries for just £2.99 at any time by filling in a feedback survey found on McDonald’s receipts.
The receipt should come with a 12-digit code which you can enter into the Food for Thought website alongside your submitted survey.
You’ll then receive a five-digit code which is your voucher for the £2.99 offer.
There are some deals and offers you can only get if you have the My McDonald’s app, so it’s worth signing up to get money off your meals.
The MyMcDonald’s app can be downloaded on iPhone and Android phones and is quick to set up.
You can also bag freebies and discounts on your birthday if you’re a My McDonald’s app user.
The chain has recently sent out reminders to app users to fill out their birthday details – otherwise they could miss out on birthday treats.
