Why some countries do not welcome McDonald's and the dangers of fast food

Why some countries do not welcome McDonald's and the dangers of fast food

Why are there no McDonald’s in some countries?

The company McDonald’s is known almost all over the world. The American fast food giant, which was originally founded by Richard and Maurice McDonald in 1940 in California as a modest restaurant, has extended its golden arches to all corners of the world. With its transformation trip from a Hamburg stand to the largest fast food chain in the world, McDonald’s is known for fast service, strategic marketing, affordable prices and a diverse menu. The iconic brand is present in 100 countries and has around 38,000 branches. With over 1.7 million employees, the brand serves more than 70 million customers a day. However, it is worth noting that McDonald’s is not welcome everywhere for various reasons.

countries without McDonald’s presence

Surprisingly, not all nations have opened their doors to the fast food giant. Whether from political decisions, economic conditions or cultural preferences, these countries are without McDonald’s.

Montenegro

The Montenegro, located on the Adriatic coast, has a rich culinary tradition that prioritizes fresh ingredients and local recipes. Despite the efforts of McDonald’s to establish himself there, Montenegro has retained its eating culture and prefers homemade dishes instead of fast food. The government's resistance and local companies indicate that there is a desire to preserve authenticity. A “mobile McDonald’s” was originally launched, with hope for a permanent footprint. Despite the initial interest of the locals, the government and local companies have restricted the expansion plans. McDonald’s then dispensed with further activities on the Montenegros market.

jemen

Yemen, with its historically rich culture and tradition, has had to deal with several challenges over the years. From economic instability to threats of extremists, the country's priority was always on the security and stability of its population. Due to the risks, McDonald’s decided not to settle in Yemen. Economic challenges have made the country into a market that is not profitable for the brand. Threats from extremists have further difficult.

Bermuda

The picturesque island of Bermuda has always placed emphasis on its local companies and its cultural integrity. Although the island once had a McDonald’s, it could only exist for a short time due to the regulations that local companies prefer to foreign chains. Laws from the 1970s banned foreign fast food facilities. A loophole enabled McDonald’s to be briefly present at a US Naval Air Station, until 1995. Testing to return to the market in 1999 were unsuccessful.

North Korea

The notorious North Korea is known for its aversion to American companies. Despite the potential interest of the citizens, the country's decisions are more about political and ideological reasons than about commercial interests. The strong aversion to American companies has led McDonald’s not establishing itself. According to reports, some elites secretly enjoy McDonald’s dishes that are smuggled from South Korea.

Bolivia

Bolivia, with its rich Andean heir and the focus on indigenous values, was historically skeptical about large companies. Bolivia's cautious attitude towards brands such as McDonald’s has shaped the opinion that global companies often make profit over the health and well -being of people. McDonald’s is not explicitly prohibited, but cultural and national perceptions have led to challenges. The last McDonald’s restaurant closed its doors in 2002 due to widespread rejection of such companies.

Dangers of Consumption of Fast Food

In addition to political and economic reasons, health concerns have long been associated with fast food. A large number of studies suggest that more consumption can lead to the following:
- Obesity
-Cardiovascular diseases
- High cholesterol level
-Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
- mental illnesses such as depression
- digestive problems
- poor nutrition
- Increased cancer risk

Numerous studies, such as those of the National Institute of Health, have pointed out the risks of regular fast food consumption.

The value of a balanced diet

A rethink in the direction of nutritional health is important. The consumption of balanced meals:
- promotes psychological well -being
- strengthens the immune system
- reduces the risk of chronic diseases
- improves bone health
- optimizes the digestion
- delivers the necessary vitamins and minerals

Scientifically sound research institutions such as the Harvard School of Public Health emphasize that a nutrition that is rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein contributes significantly to general health.

While McDonald’s is still a significant size in the fast food industry, the recording of the brand varies worldwide. The resistance of the countries opposite the chain offers an insight into the complex network of politics, business and cultural preferences. In addition, this discussion draws attention to the broader discourse on health, nutrition and the daily decisions we make. Information about our diet can affect our health, life expectancy and quality of life.