Maryland Law Changes McDonald’s Large Fries Packaging – Customers Notice the Difference

If you recently ordered a medium or large fries at McDonald’s in Montgomery County, you may have noticed something different the moment your order was handed across the counter.

The familiar red cardboard fry sleeve is disappearing. In its place? A simple paper bag.

Some customers say the new packaging feels lighter. Others believe the portion looks smaller. Social media threads have filled with side-by-side comparisons and debates over whether the fries themselves have changed, or if it’s simply the presentation.

But this shift is not just a corporate decision. It’s tied to a Maryland law passed in 2024.

Why the Packaging Changed

The change traces back to legislation aimed at restricting so-called “forever chemicals,” formally known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These chemicals have been used for decades in products that resist grease, heat, and water — including certain types of food packaging.

Under Maryland’s updated environmental regulations, food containers that contain PFAS coatings are being phased out. That includes some grease-resistant cardboard packaging historically used by fast-food chains.

As a result, certain McDonald’s locations in Montgomery County have transitioned from the classic cardboard fry sleeve to a paper bag alternative.

Former Governor Larry Hogan signed the broader bill into law in 2024. While much of the public discussion focused on firefighting foam restrictions, the legislation also addressed PFAS in food packaging.

Are the Portions Actually Smaller?

This is where things get interesting.

McDonald’s maintains that fry portion sizes have not changed. The company says a large fries still contains the same weight and volume as before.

However, packaging design matters. The traditional cardboard sleeve had rigid walls and a wide opening, making it easier to visually “heap” fries above the rim. A flexible paper bag may naturally compress fries differently, making portions appear smaller even if the weight is consistent.

Food packaging experts note that container shape, opening width, and rigidity can influence how full a serving looks to customers.

In short, perception and portion size are not always the same thing.

The Bigger Debate: Health vs. Convenience

The discussion around the new packaging has sparked a broader conversation.

Some customers argue that if the change reduces potential exposure to harmful chemicals, it’s a positive step. PFAS substances have been studied for possible links to long-term health risks, and many states are tightening restrictions on their use.

Others question whether environmental legislation sometimes produces unintended consumer frustrations, especially if packaging changes affect food presentation or perceived value.

One common point raised in community discussions: if shrinkage is happening, it would be a pricing issue rather than a regulatory one. If portion sizes remain the same, then the issue may simply be visual.

Is Maryland Alone?

Maryland is not the only state updating PFAS regulations. Several states, including California and Washington, have introduced similar restrictions on certain food packaging materials in recent years.

As national chains operate across multiple jurisdictions, packaging adjustments often roll out regionally based on local laws.

That means what you see at a McDonald’s in Maryland might look different from one in Virginia or Texas.

What Customers Should Watch For

If you’re curious whether portions have changed, here’s a simple way to evaluate:

• Compare price per size over time

• Check consistency between visits

• Notice whether fries fill the bag to the same level

Fast-food pricing and portion consistency have been under national scrutiny amid inflation concerns. Packaging changes can sometimes amplify those perceptions.

Final Thoughts

For now, Maryland fry lovers may need to adjust to a new look and feel when ordering medium or large fries.

Whether the difference is cosmetic or measurable remains a topic of debate. What’s clear is that food packaging is evolving nationwide as environmental and health regulations expand.

And while the iconic red sleeve may be fading in some locations, the fries themselves are still golden, hot, and served the same way — just in a different container.