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MCDONALD'S has announced it has reversed a key change to its iconic Happy Meal.

The Golden Arches axed plastic toys from its kids' meal in 2021 after four decades in a push to be more sustainable.

McDonald's Happy Meal box and drink cup.
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McDonald's have announced it will bring back plastic toys to its iconic Happy MealCredit: Getty Images - Getty

The fast food company opted for easily recyclable items such as soft toys, sustainable paper-based toys, and books.

However, Maccies say they will be bringing back the former using "durable materials" to make the add-ons last longer and be able to be passed down to future generations, Metro .

The company are eyeing up two types of ISCC Plus Certified (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification system) plastic.

These include Mass Balance plastic made from used cooking oil and Green PE which is produced from renewable raw material sugar cane.

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"Our iconic Happy Meal has been creating fun family moments for decades and that familiar feeling of excitement when kids open the box to discover which book or toy it contains," Ben Fox, the chief marketing officer for McDonald’s UK & Ireland, said. 

"The new approach we’re testing means that we can keep delivering that great experience through a range of toys made with different recyclable materials that children can enjoy playing with for longer."

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The fast food chain recently caused a buzz among customers by adding new items to its menu.

Last month, it brought back the beloved Raspberry and White Chocolate pie.

The tasty snack, which costs £1.99 comes with a fluffy pink pastry and is filled with raspberry compote and white chocolate ganache.

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McDonald's has also brought back its Philly Cheese Stack after axing it in September 2024.

The burger includes two huge beef patties slathered with cheese sauce, as well as cheese slices and crispy onions. 

It costs £5.29 by itself, but Maccies fans can upgrade to a medium sized meal deal for just £6.99. 

Both of these treats will be available until May 6.

Also launching soon is the Shamrock Shake, which is a completely new item.

Foodies will only be able to pick up the Irish-themed drink from March 12 until March 25.

How do I find my nearest McDonald's?

The chain has a restaurant locator tool on its website you can use to find your nearest one - and check what time it opens.

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McDonald's locator also lets you know when its stores open.

To find out more, visit mcdonalds.com/gb/en-gb/restaurant-locator.html.

How to save at McDonald's

You could end up being charged more for a McDonald's meal based solely on the McDonald's restaurant you choose.

Research by The Sun found a Big Mac meal can be up to 30% cheaper at restaurants just two miles apart from each other.

You can pick up a Big Mac and fries for just £2.99 at any time by filling in a feedback survey found on McDonald's receipts.

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.

There are some deals and offers you can only get if you have the My McDonald’s app, so it’s worth signing up to get money off your meals.

The MyMcDonald’s app can be downloaded on iPhone and Android phones and is quick to set up.

You can also bag freebies and discounts on your birthday if you’re a My McDonald’s app user.

The chain has recently sent out reminders to app users to fill out their birthday details - otherwise they could miss out on birthday treats.

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