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Mar 2, 2013

News: McDonald's Dropping Chicken Selects and Fruit & Walnut Salad

McDonald's is dropping Chicken Selects and the Fruit & Walnut Salad from their menu, according to this report by Reuters. Angus Third Pounders are also under consideration for the chopping block.

The move comes as the chain faces stiff competition from its top rivals, Burger King and Wendy's, as well as from the fast casual sector (Chipotle, Panera, etc.).

Since being acquired by 3G Capital, Burger King has been on a tear, producing limited-time menu, after menu, after menu. Taking a page (or two) out of McDonald's playbook, they've even added snack wraps, smoothies, frappes, and are set to add lattes this month.

Wendy's has gone a slightly different way: revamping and improving their burgers and are also working on a new coffee platform.

Interestingly, Burger King introduced Chicken Strips last year to better compete against Chicken Selects. With Chicken Selects being dropped, it leaves BK as the only one of the Big Three burger chains to still offer chicken strips.

A possible successor for McDonald's Chicken Selects might come in the form of Mighty Wings, which have been tested in Atlanta and are currently winding down in Chicago. However, such a move comes with its own problems: Mighty Wings are on the pricey side ($2.99 for 3 pieces) and can't be eaten neatly (which doesn't bode well for the in-car dining some McDonald's-goers sometimes perform).

As for Angus Third Pounders, McDonald's is currently testing using the Quarter Pounder as a base for various burgers.