McDonald's Chicken Tenders: A Legacy of Flavor and Sodium
For years, McDonald's has offered various versions of its crispy chicken strips. The most recent and widely known before their discontinuation were the Buttermilk Crispy Tenders. These were removed from the menu in 2020 as part of operational simplifications, leaving many fans disappointed. In early 2025, McDonald's officially brought back a version of their beloved strips, now branded as 'McCrispy Strips'. Understanding the nutritional profile of both the old and new offerings, particularly the sodium content, is key for health-conscious consumers.
The Sodium Breakdown: Buttermilk Crispy Tenders (Discontinued)
Before their departure from the menu, the Buttermilk Crispy Tenders were known for their rich flavor, which came with a considerable amount of sodium. The amount varied directly with the serving size.
- 4-piece Buttermilk Crispy Tenders (without sauce): 1,390mg sodium. This represented about 58% of the average daily recommended intake based on a 2,300mg diet.
- 6-piece Buttermilk Crispy Tenders (without sauce): 2,090mg sodium. This single meal contained 87% of the average daily recommended sodium.
- 10-piece Buttermilk Crispy Tenders (without sauce): 3,480mg sodium. This exceeded the average daily recommendation by 45%, consuming more sodium than is recommended for two full days in one sitting.
The Newcomer: McCrispy Strips (Current)
In 2025, McDonald's introduced the McCrispy Strips, a permanent menu item intended to replace the retired Buttermilk Crispy Tenders. These strips feature a new black pepper flavor and come in different portion sizes with updated nutritional information.
- 3-piece McCrispy Strips: 1,100mg sodium. This portion delivers 48% of the daily value.
- 4-piece McCrispy Strips: 1,470mg sodium. This is 64% of the daily value.
Why So Much Sodium? The Science of Fast Food Preparation
Fast food items, particularly fried and breaded products like chicken tenders, are high in sodium for several reasons:
- Brining: Before cooking, chicken is often brined in a saltwater solution to increase moisture and flavor, which infuses the meat with sodium.
- Breading and Seasoning: The crispy coating is typically a mix of flour and a wide array of seasonings, including salt, to maximize taste. This breading adds a significant amount of sodium.
- Flavor Enhancement: Food manufacturers use sodium not just for saltiness but also as a flavor enhancer. Ingredients like yeast extract further boost the savory profile.
Comparison Table: McDonald's Chicken Items (U.S. Data)
| Menu Item | Serving Size | Sodium Content | % Daily Value (based on 2,300mg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buttermilk Crispy Tenders (Discontinued) | 4-piece | 1,390mg | 58% |
| Buttermilk Crispy Tenders (Discontinued) | 6-piece | 2,090mg | 87% |
| Buttermilk Crispy Tenders (Discontinued) | 10-piece | 3,480mg | 145% |
| McCrispy Strips (2025) | 3-piece | 1,100mg | 48% |
| McCrispy Strips (2025) | 4-piece | 1,470mg | 64% |
| Chicken McNuggets | 10-piece | 840mg (approx) | 37% |
Navigating High-Sodium Fast Food
It is possible to enjoy fast food in moderation, but understanding the nutritional impact is important. The American Heart Association recommends limiting daily sodium to under 2,300 milligrams, and ideally no more than 1,500mg for most adults. A single serving of any McDonald's tenders or strips can consume a substantial portion of this allowance. To manage your intake, consider smaller portion sizes, skipping high-sodium dipping sauces, and balancing your other meals throughout the day with low-sodium, whole foods.
For more information on dietary sodium, consider consulting authoritative sources like the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Conclusion
While the specific sodium content of McDonald's chicken tenders has shifted with the introduction of the new McCrispy Strips, the overarching theme remains: they are a high-sodium food item. The discontinued Buttermilk Crispy Tenders were especially high, with larger servings far exceeding daily health limits. The current McCrispy Strips are still a significant source of sodium. As with any fast food, enjoyment is best paired with awareness and moderation to maintain a balanced diet.
