Israeli diners can now enjoy falafel fast food style – but for more calories than a burger.
McDonald’s has just launched a McFalafel option to suit Middle Eastern tastes. Served with tahina or pita bread and chopped salad, prices range from ten shekels (£1.80) to 34.90 shekels (£6), depending on portion size and extras.
The fast food chain already sells a McKebab. The chief executive of McDonald’s Israel, Omri Padan, said: “The McFalafel is another one of our products which has been adjusted to the Israeli taste.”
The company, which has 160 stores in Israel including 36 kosher ones, is planning to open at least 40 more McDonalds around the country in the next four years.
Mr Padan said that the McFalafel contains 6.7 per fat and has 499 calories, nine more than found in a McDonald’s Big Mac.
However the McFalafel option is still healthier than the company's cheeseburger which, with chips and dressing, comes to 525 calories.
Mr Padan said: "If people would free themselves of the feelings of guilt and be aware of the true facts, they would eat more.
“If someone wants to go on a diet at McDonald's, they can.”
But he added: “They have to watch what they eat outside the chain as well."
To get more Israel news, click here to sign up for our free Israel Briefing newsletter.