Calories in McDonald's Fries: Full Nutrition Breakdown

McDonald's French Fries are among the most recognizable side items in all of fast food, known for their thin, crispy texture and distinctive salty flavor. A medium serving contains approximately 320 calories, with nearly half of those calories coming from fat. Despite their relatively simple appearance, McDonald's fries are cooked in a blend of canola, soybean, and hydrogenated soybean oils with natural beef flavoring.

Calories by serving size:

The jump from medium to large is significant — an additional 160 calories and 8 grams of fat. For calorie-conscious diners, sticking with a small fries saves 90 calories compared to a medium and 250 calories compared to a large, while still satisfying the craving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in small, medium, and large McDonald's fries?

Small fries contain 230 calories, medium fries contain 320 calories, and large fries contain 480 calories. The difference between small and large is 250 calories and 12 grams of fat, which is roughly equivalent to an additional small meal. Choosing a small over a large is one of the easiest ways to reduce total meal calories.

Are McDonald's fries unhealthy?

McDonald's fries are high in refined carbohydrates, sodium, and fat relative to their nutritional value, providing very little fiber, vitamins, or minerals. A medium serving has 320 calories with 15 grams of fat and 43 grams of carbs but only 5 grams of protein. They are best treated as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular dietary staple.

Why do McDonald's fries have so many calories?

McDonald's fries are deep-fried in a blend of vegetable oils, which significantly increases their calorie density compared to a plain baked potato. The frying process adds about 10-15 grams of fat per serving, and the fries are also coated with a mixture that includes dextrose and sodium acid pyrophosphate before cooking. The natural beef flavoring added to the oil contributes to flavor but not significantly to the calorie count.

How much sodium is in McDonald's fries?

A medium serving of McDonald's fries contains about 260 mg of sodium, which is relatively moderate on its own. However, when paired with a Big Mac (1010 mg) and a medium Coca-Cola (0 mg but high sugar), the overall meal sodium exceeds 1200 mg — over half the daily recommended limit. The sodium content scales with size, with large fries containing approximately 400 mg.

How many calories do I save by swapping fries for apple slices?

Swapping medium fries for a bag of McDonald's apple slices saves approximately 285 calories, as apple slices contain only about 35 calories per serving. You also eliminate 15 grams of fat and gain natural fiber and vitamin C instead. It is one of the most impactful single swaps you can make at McDonald's to cut calories from a meal.