The Origins of the Filet-O-Fish
The Filet-O-Fish sandwich has a surprisingly long and interesting history, dating back to 1962. It was created by a Cincinnati-based McDonald's franchise owner named Lou Groen, who needed a solution for a slump in Friday sales in his predominantly Catholic neighborhood. Many of his customers abstained from eating meat on Fridays, especially during Lent. His solution, a breaded fish sandwich, competed head-to-head with McDonald's founder Ray Kroc's alternative, the 'Hula Burger' (a slice of pineapple and cheese on a bun). The fish sandwich overwhelmingly won the sales contest and earned its spot on the permanent menu.
What is the Fish Fillet Actually Made Of?
Alaskan Pollock: The Core Ingredient
For many years, and in most markets today, the fish used in the Filet-O-Fish is 100% wild-caught Alaska Pollock. Alaskan Pollock is a mild-flavored, whitefish species prized for its flaky texture. It is a lean fish and is often used in other products like fish sticks and imitation crab meat, though it is important to note that the McDonald's patty is made from whole-muscle fillets, not the processed surimi used in imitation crab.
The Fishing and Freezing Process
A key element in the quality of the McDonald's fish patty is the process used from catch to final product. The Alaska Pollock is wild-caught from fisheries primarily located in the Bering Sea. To ensure maximum freshness and quality, the fish is filleted and flash-frozen right on the fishing vessel. This process locks in the freshness and flavor, preventing degradation and ensuring a consistent, quality product. The fish portions are then breaded and frozen before being shipped to McDonald's restaurants.
Beyond the Fish: Other Ingredients in the Patty
While the patty is primarily fish, it is not simply a piece of plain fish. For example, the ingredients list for the UK Filet-O-Fish shows the fish fillet portion consists of 75% Alaska Pollock fillet, along with wheat flour, water, modified wheat starch, corn flour, salt, corn starch, yeast, and a thickening agent. This combination of ingredients ensures the patty holds its shape and achieves its crispy texture when fried.
Sustainable Sourcing and the MSC Certification
The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Certification
McDonald's sources its fish from fisheries that have been certified as sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). The MSC certification is a widely recognized standard for sustainable fishing practices, designed to protect fish populations and marine ecosystems for the future. This certification provides customers with the assurance that their Filet-O-Fish comes from a fishery that meets strict environmental and traceability standards.
Why Sustainable Sourcing is Important
The collaboration with the MSC reflects McDonald's commitment to responsible sourcing. By supporting sustainable fisheries, the company helps promote practices that minimize waste, reduce bycatch (the capture of non-target fish species), and maintain the long-term health of fish populations. This approach is crucial for preventing overfishing and ensuring the viability of marine resources.
Is it a Fillet or a Patty? Understanding the Terminology
| Feature | Fish Fillet (General) | McDonald's Fish Patty |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | A solid, single piece of fish cut from the side of the fish. | Made from a whole-muscle Alaska Pollock fillet, but includes other ingredients for texture and structure. |
| Texture | Flaky, natural fish texture. | A consistent, solid texture achieved through freezing and processing, with a crispy breading. |
| Preparation | Typically cooked fresh, from a fresh or thawed fillet. | Pre-prepared, breaded, and frozen, then deep-fried at the restaurant. |
| Shape | Varies based on the size and type of fish. | Uniformly square to fit the standard sandwich bun. |
| Source | Can be wild-caught or farm-raised. | 100% wild-caught from sustainable sources. |
The Truth About the "Not Real Fish" Myth
The misconception that the Filet-O-Fish is not real fish likely stems from two key factors: its processed appearance and the breading, and its consistent, uniform shape. Unlike a whole fish fillet you might prepare at home, the McDonald's patty is a processed product designed for consistency and ease of handling in a fast-food environment. However, the core of the patty is, in fact, real, whole-muscle Alaska Pollock fillet, not a mix of scrap parts as some rumors suggest.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question, "Is the fish filet from McDonald's real fish?" is a resounding yes. The patty is made from 100% wild-caught Alaska Pollock, sourced from Marine Stewardship Council-certified sustainable fisheries. While it is a processed and breaded patty, not a fresh-cut fillet, the core ingredient is genuine whitefish. The rigorous process, from flash-freezing at sea to final preparation, ensures a consistent and high-quality product, backed by a commitment to sustainable sourcing.
[Genuine Alaska Pollock Producers] (https://www.alaskapollock.org/)
