The Unrivaled Big Mac Record Holder
Donald Gorske, a retired prison guard from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, has an unparalleled passion: the Big Mac. On May 17, 1972, he consumed his first Big Macs and declared the burger his favorite food. This marked the beginning of a lifetime dedicated to the McDonald's staple. On that initial day, Gorske ate nine Big Macs and later adopted a routine of eating two burgers daily. His commitment extends to meticulously tracking each purchase, saving every receipt and container to document his consumption.
A Lifetime of Consistency
Gorske's record-breaking consumption is a continuous journey that has spanned over five decades. Milestones are key markers of his record, each new thousand-burger mark is celebrated. He reached his 25,000th Big Mac in 2011, his 30,000th in 2018, and most recently, his 35,000th on March 15, 2025. Despite the repetitive nature of his diet, he insists that he has never grown tired of the Big Mac's flavor, always looking forward to his next burger.
- The Beginning: May 17, 1972, Gorske ate nine Big Macs at a McDonald’s in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.
- Daily Consumption: For the majority of his record, Gorske has eaten two Big Macs per day.
- Missed Days: He has only missed eight days of eating a Big Mac in over half a century. One instance was to honor his mother's request after her passing.
- Emergency Stock: Gorske keeps a supply of frozen Big Macs in his freezer to ensure he never misses his daily meal due to any unforeseen circumstances, like severe weather.
- Media Coverage: Gorske's unique habit has led to media appearances, including the 2004 documentary Super Size Me, offering a unique viewpoint on a fast-food-centered diet.
Health and Lifestyle
Surprisingly, Gorske maintains a healthy lifestyle. Despite consuming a diet almost entirely of fast food, he claims to have normal cholesterol and blood pressure. He attributes his health to a few key lifestyle choices:
- Excluding Sides: Gorske consistently avoids fries or any other side dishes, focusing exclusively on the Big Mac.
- Daily Exercise: He maintains an active lifestyle, walking six to ten miles daily, which he believes balances his calorie intake.
- Metabolism: Gorske believes he has a high metabolism, which prevents excessive weight gain from his high-calorie diet.
Comparing Gorske's Big Mac Consumption
To understand the magnitude of Gorske's achievement, his Big Mac consumption can be compared to that of an average person.
| Aspect | Donald Gorske | Average Person |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Date | May 17, 1972 | Varies |
| Burgers Per Day | ~2 | ~0.05 (once every 20 days) |
| Total Burgers (as of Mar 2025) | >35,000 | Likely under 1,000 |
| Health Profile | Claims normal cholesterol/blood pressure | Varies, potential health risks |
| Tracking Method | Keeps every receipt and carton | No systematic tracking |
| Dietary Percentage | 90–95% of solid food intake | Varies |
The Psychology Behind the Big Mac Diet
Gorske's fondness for the Big Mac goes beyond mere enjoyment, representing a consistent preference. He has acknowledged obsessive-compulsive traits, but his love for the Big Mac appears to be the most influential factor. Gorske told Guinness World Records that when he finds something he likes, he sticks with it, and the Big Mac is simply his favorite food. This behavior demonstrates a deep psychological comfort with routine and familiarity, which has allowed him to sustain this unusual habit for over half a century.
This approach sharply contrasts with the dietary norms of most people, who desire variety. For Gorske, the consistency is a source of satisfaction, not boredom. His appearance in Super Size Me showed an individual thriving on a diet that caused another person significant health issues, highlighting differences in individual metabolism and health outcomes. However, Gorske advises others against attempting his feat, acknowledging his unique ability to manage such a singular diet without apparent harm.
Conclusion: A Testament to Human Behavior
Donald Gorske's story is a remarkable illustration of human habits and dedication. His relentless pursuit of consuming his favorite burger has secured his place in record books and made him a fast-food icon. What began as a simple celebration purchase in 1972 developed into a half-century-long obsession, meticulously documented and steadfastly maintained. His record for the most Big Macs eaten in a lifetime is more than a large number of burgers; it is a fascinating case study in consistency, dedication, and the complexities of individual health and psychology. While others are warned against trying to beat his record, Gorske will likely continue to enjoy his daily Big Macs for years to come.
For more fascinating stories about unique individuals and their achievements, visit the Guinness World Records website.
