McDonald’s Workers Reveal Why the Ice Cream Machine is Always Broken
There is perhaps no greater disappointment during the hot summer months than being told that the McDonald’s ice cream machine is out of order when all you’re craving is a delicious McFlurry. It’s a familiar encounter for many, and according to a recent study, it’s the most common complaint on Twitter among fast food fans. But is the machine really broken or is there something else going on?
Former McDonald’s employees have shed some light on the issue, revealing that the ice cream machines are rarely broken; they just take forever to clean. Sarah Vaught, a former manager from Illinois, explained that the McFlurry machine requires a four-hour automated heat cleaning process every night to ensure that any bacteria inside the machines are eliminated. To prepare for cleaning, McDonald’s staff must remove and wash seven different parts using a sanitizing mix. Sometimes, the staff will start breaking down the machine before the store even closes, resulting in customers being told the machine is out of order.
Former employees on Twitter have confirmed this claim, with one ex-McDonald’s worker admitting that the ice cream machine was always working but took too long to clean, so they would often tell customers it was broken. Another former employee mentioned that everything about the machine was just miserable, and they didn’t want to risk a spillage if someone ordered a McFlurry close to closing time.
However, it’s not just the cleaning process that causes frustration. The machines are also prone to breakdowns, with one in four branches reportedly telling a fast food consultant that their equipment was truly out of order. But for the most part, it seems that the infamous broken ice cream machine is due to the time-consuming cleaning procedure rather than actual malfunctions.
In 2019, McDonald’s responded to the ongoing ice cream machine complaints and stated that the machines are cleaned every 24 hours. They also apologized for any inconvenience caused. It is important to note that while the cleaning process may be lengthy, it is necessary to maintain hygiene standards and ensure the safety of customers.
So the next time you’re craving a McFlurry and are told that the ice cream machine is out of order, know that it’s likely due to the cleaning process rather than a genuine breakdown. The staff at McDonald’s are working hard to provide you with a safe and enjoyable dining experience, even if it means a little disappointment when it comes to your favorite frozen treat.
