The McRib is (almost) back! Now, let's read the fine print

Hey, Southern Californians, if you're in the mood for a patty made from pork, water, salt, sugar (dextrose to be exact) and a few preservatives -- a.k.a. a McRib sandwich from your local Golden Arches outlet -- you're in luck. Or soon will be. This just in:

"Featuring a boneless pork rib patty topped with pickles, onions and tangy BBQ sauce served on a fresh bakery roll, the legendary sandwich, which has not been available to customers in Southern California since 2006, will be offered on the menu for a limited time at participating McDonald’s restaurants. ..."

This was too good to resist. We had to check out the nutritional information. The upshot: 500 calories per sandwhich, 26 grams of fat and 980 milligrams of sodium. To be fair, it's a better bet in some ways than the Premium Crispy Chicken Club Sandwich, with 630 calories, 28 grams of fat, and 1,360 milligrams of salt.

That's not to say healthful food can't be had. It can. So, please, choose wisely. The Southwest Salad With Grilled Chicken seems like a fairly smart choice -- unless you're watching your sodium. And you should be. (More on sodium as it relates to blood pressure, food, labels, etc.) And salads are less likely to be ordered with a honking huge side of fries. A large size has 500 calories of its own. (We will not discuss the McFlurry.)

For help in making smart choices when eating fast food, here's some basic advice from helpguide.org.

And for the nitty-gritty on menu options at chain restaurants, fast-food and otherwise (all conveniently compiled in one place), there's CalorieCount.com. It's fascinating stuff. ...

Still, we're left wondering ...

"Legendary sandwich"?

-- Tami Dennis

Photo: Make good choices. They're available.

Credit: Christine Cotter / Los Angeles Times
 

Comments

[Trey Carlisle]

I used to love the McRib. But 500 calories per sandwich seems like more bodily trouble than it's worth. I think I'm gonna pass next time I get the offer.

[Tressa]

I don't care, 500 or 1,000 calories, give me a McRib, I love them! The key is exercise and moderation.

[FormerFatty]

Been waiting for this day! 500 calories is not a lot if thats your meal. Heck, take off the top part of the bun and you"ll probably save 75 calories. I'm more worried about the price. If its $4 or more, I will only be eating one this season. Cant wait to get one!!

[Ally]

Was this an advertisement? Seems like somebody sold out to the Golden Arches.

[Mike Elmer Dills]

It hasn't been the same in years, just like Ho Ho and Hostess cupcakes, someone cheapened the product and they all taste like Krapp.

[Bean]

Pork. The other white meat. I can't wait, mmmm!

[Jasper Speck]

Here's a healthy suggestion: The supermarket. A deli. Farmers markets. Local eateries. Hate to be a contrarian, but wow LA Times, way to be responsible to your readers. Does it really matter that the McRib is back? Does McD's need any recognition? It's just low grade artificially flavored meat matter that claims to be pork—And magically the meat doesn't have bones. 500 calories is meaningless when you actually take into consideration the health benefits (or lack thereof).

[keith]

curious why manufactures think we so need so much salt in various food items?

[Amber Neal]

First of all, LOVE the McRib! Secondly, there is nothing wrong with enjoying this wonderful, calorie filled, sodium burger. Just drink some water, exercise, and take it all in moderation. We only have one life and consuming a boneless pig once in a while will not ruin your health forever. So seriously, stop griping at the LA Times and preaching about the farmers market and go eat your boring soy sandwich with the rest of the people who steal the life and fun out of our wonderful McDonalds goodness.

[timmy]

These kinds of sandwiches are terrible. Terrible for the waistline and health. It lacks nutritional benefits, and over-all, it's just plain lousy to eat one. Chomping down on such a sandwich should in fact be limited to once a year.

[jennifer gonzalez]

Hi, The following is going to sound crazy!! I apologize and assure you it's true. My husband LOVES the McRib sandwich! Alas, here in the northeast it is no where to be found. He is an amazing guy who has been battling his second round of cancer, winning a battle against nicotine, working a job he's less than crazy about, raising a six-year old "spirited" girl, and dealing with the whacky ways of his wife (me). He courageously meets each of these challenges with grace. I desperately want to say thank you. I think the McRib sandwich is just the way to do it. Can you help? Can any of your readers help? Thank you for your time. Jennifer Gonzalez jennifer.gonzalez@whschools.org