The Math Behind McDonald's Burgers: How Many Cows Does It Really Take?

Are there enough cows to feed McDonald's burger demand? A recent TikTok video sparked a discussion about the sheer number of cows needed to supply the fast-food giant's daily burger production. The video, created by Sifurickb, uses calculations to estimate the number of cows required, arriving at a figure of approximately 481,632.7. This figure is based on the assumption that each burger uses one patty, although the author acknowledges variations in patty usage across different McDonald's menu items. Sifurickb further highlights the significant scale of cattle ranching in the United States, Australia, and South America, suggesting that the number of cows needed is not as extraordinary as it might initially seem. The video has generated interest online, prompting discussions about food production and supply chains. The author's calculations, while based on certain assumptions, provide a starting point for considering the complex logistics of supplying a global fast-food chain. While the video's presentation style is somewhat sensationalized, the underlying topic warrants further investigation into the sustainability and ethical considerations of large-scale meat production.