Meet the Big Mac King: Donald Gorske's Record-Breaking Obsession
The story of Donald Gorske is a testament to consistency and dedication—and a love for one particular hamburger. He has held the world record for eating the most Big Macs in a lifetime for over two decades, first achieving the title in 1999. His journey began on May 17, 1972, when he purchased his first three Big Macs after getting his new car, eating a total of nine on that inaugural day. This seemingly simple event sparked a lifelong obsession that has earned him international recognition.
The Numbers Behind the Record
Gorske's habit has been remarkably consistent. For many years, he maintained a diet of two Big Macs per day, one for lunch and one for dinner, with very few exceptions. The reasons for not eating a Big Mac are a rare occurrence and include a day his mother passed away and a few times when McDonald's was closed due to weather. His dedication is so serious that he has kept an "emergency stash" of frozen Big Macs for such potential emergencies.
Gorske's meticulous record-keeping is a key part of his credibility. He saves every carton and receipt from his purchases and logs his meals in a diary. This documentation has been critical for Guinness World Records to verify his ever-growing number of Big Macs, which surpassed 35,000 in early 2025. His commitment provides undeniable proof of his achievement.
A Diet That Defies Expectations
One of the most surprising aspects of Gorske's story is his apparent health. Despite a diet that consists almost entirely of fast food, Gorske reports that his cholesterol and blood sugar levels are within normal ranges. He attributes this, in part, to a routine of regular walking—reportedly around six miles a day—and avoiding other unhealthy options like McDonald's fries. His story was even featured in the documentary Super Size Me as a counterpoint to the negative health effects experienced by the filmmaker. While most medical professionals would advise against such a diet, Gorske's case highlights the unpredictable nature of health and genetics.
The Future of the Big Mac Record
Despite being over 70 years old, Gorske shows no signs of slowing down his consumption. He has publicly stated that he will continue to eat Big Macs as long as he lives, as they remain his favorite food. His dedication is so legendary that his local McDonald's has honored him by hanging his portrait on their wall. For anyone aspiring to challenge his record, Gorske has a simple piece of advice: "Don't". The sheer consistency required over decades is a monumental feat.
Comparison of Big Mac Consumption Achievements
| Achiever | Record Type | Total Big Macs | Time Period | Other Notable Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Donald Gorske | Lifetime Consumption | 35,000+ | Since May 17, 1972 | Meticulously documented, walked regularly, avoided fries. |
| Molly Schuyler | One-Sitting (Female) | 34 | May 30, 2020 | Set a record in a competitive eating YouTube video, surpassing Joey Chestnut. |
| Joey Chestnut | One-Sitting (Male) | 32 | March 5, 2020 | Set a previous one-sitting record in a competitive eating YouTube video, taking 38 minutes. |
| Matt Stonie | One-Sitting (Previous) | 25 | 2015 | Set an earlier record in a competitive eating YouTube video. |
Life as a Big Mac Enthusiast
Gorske's life revolves around his favorite burger in several ways. Not only does he eat them daily, but his passion has also intertwined with his personal milestones. He proposed to his wife, Mary, in a McDonald's parking lot, and the couple even has a decorative, unused stove in their kitchen, as he does not require it for his daily meals. His former coworkers at the Waupun Correctional Institution even helped support his habit, sometimes bringing him burgers during double shifts. His obsession is a defining part of his identity.
The Psychology of Obsessive Eating
While Gorske frames his habit as simple preference, the psychological aspect is fascinating. His desire for consistency and his meticulous documentation could point to obsessive-compulsive traits, something he has acknowledged himself, although he does not view it as a problem. This kind of extreme dedication to a single food item is extremely rare and offers a unique case study for nutritional and psychological experts. His unwavering commitment is what makes his story so compelling and his record virtually unbreakable.
Conclusion
There is no question about who has eaten the most Big Macs: Donald Gorske is the undisputed champion. His decades-long, unwavering commitment to the McDonald's icon has earned him a prominent place in the Guinness World Records. With his meticulous record-keeping, surprising health statistics, and endearing story, Gorske remains the ultimate Big Mac enthusiast. He serves as a peculiar example of how a simple love for a food item can turn into a globally recognized accomplishment.
