Five Guys has ditched its famous roasting cups and is now packing its famous cakes in “eco-friendly” paper bags – and not everyone is keen on the switch.
The popular fast food chain insists nothing else has changed, promising the same bulk portions customers are used to. But the switch, driven by environmental concerns and a growing backlash against plastic packaging, is already causing outrage among loyal fans.
The chain, which first opened its doors in 1986, released the news on Facebook on March 16, announcing: “We are now serving our fries in paper bags.
“We still use freshly cut potatoes and good portions, but this new packaging helps the fries hold their texture and keeps takeout and delivery fresher, longer.
“We are also proud to share that these bags are made from biodegradable natural kraft paper and are food-grade, oil-, BPA- and PFAS-resistant.”
However, some critics say the change feels rushed, coming as businesses across the country face growing pressure to ditch plastic.
Industry voices have already warned that lawmakers should slow down and learn how consumers react to the new purse fees and restrictions before going all-in on a ban.
And online? The fans roast the giant.
Under the announcement, customers flooded the post office with complaints – and they’re not holding back.
Many say that the bags can’t handle the oily load, the oil seeps in quickly and does damage.
Another person wrote: “The portions are small when the bag goes in and the oil goes in very quickly.
“If the bags were fried at one time, they have not returned since then,” said one food lover.
Another dish answered: “The cup kept the oil from getting on the seats of your car when you took it home.”
Others went further, accusing the fast-moving chain of quietly reducing parts while hiding behind eco-friendly messages.
“The real reason is to justify or try to hide that you get less in the bag,” read a third comment.
But the Five Young Men forcefully push back.
The spokesperson stressed that the popular “extra scoop” isn’t going anywhere and that customers are still getting the small, regular and large sizes they’ve always had.
“Five Boys has been getting great feedback about our new fry bags, and we want to make sure our customers know that our fry parts have not changed,” a spokesperson said.
“Our extra cups will never run out. You get the same portions in the same size as our toaster cups: Small, Regular and Large.
“We are switching to bags to ensure that the fries stay fresher for longer, as the bags allow air to circulate better.
“This is very important for procurement and delivery. Also, this smart packaging is part of our big commitment to the environment.
“The bags are made from biodegradable natural kraft paper. They are food safe, oil free, BPA and PFAS free, and FDA approved.”
