MCDONALD’S has axed a popular festive freebie in a blow for families.
The home of the Big Mac is charging 79p for its “Reindeer Treats” this Christmas, down from the usual 99p.
McDonald’s has axed its free bag of carrots this Christmas
But the bags of carrots have been available for free in previous years, including in 2021 and 2022.
The news will likely be a blow for families expecting to pick the treats up for Rudolph and his pals at no expense.
We’ve approached McDonald’s for a comment and to find out what exact date the carrots are available and will update this story once we’ve heard back.
If paying for the treats isn’t enough to put you off, you can head to your nearest McDonald’s branch to buy them, subject to availability.
You can find your nearest McDonald’s branch by using the fast food chain’s locator tool on its website.
It comes as two major supermarkets announce they are offering customers free carrots this year.
Tesco shoppers can pick up a free carrot at one of 829 stores from December 20 until Christmas Eve.
Customers will be able to pick up the free treats for Rudolph and his friends at stands by store entrances, while stocks last.
The retailer first launched the initiative in 2019.
Meanwhile, rival Morrisons is giving away 175,000 wonky carrots across all its 496 supermarkets between December 22 and 24.
The initiative is aimed at providing festive cheer to customers while promoting the use of misshapen fruit and veg.
Andy Todd, carrot buyer at the chain, said: “We’re thrilled to help add a little bit of magic to our customers’ celebrations by giving them a delicious wonky carrot to leave out for Rudolph.
“Our tasty wonky range helps our British farmers reduce waste and offer customers a delicious alternative at a fraction of the cost.”
Morrisons launched its wonky fruit and veg range in 2015 in a bid to minimise food waste and offer cheaper produce to customers.
The range includes 24 varieties, including potatoes, carrots and parsnips.
How to save money at McDonald’s
You might not think it, but you can end up being charged more solely based on the McDonald’s restaurant you choose.
Research by The Sun found a Big Mac meal can be up to 30p cheaper at restaurants just two miles apart from each other.
Meanwhile, you can pick up a Big Mac and fries for just £2.99 by filling in a feedback survey found on any old McDonald’s receipt.
The receipt should come with a 12-digit code which you can enter into the Food for Thought website alongside your submitted survey.
You’ll then receive a five digit code which is your voucher for the £2.99 offer.
Make sure you check out all the various apps and platforms if you’re ordering McDonald’s to your home too.
Our research found some can charge up to £1.20 more than others.
You can also join our new Sun Money Facebook group to share stories and tips and engage with the consumer team and other group members.