McDonald's 14-Year-Old Hamburger: David Whipple of Utah Preserves Burger

McDonald's hamburger lasts for 14-years
Credit: McDonald's

Would you ever keep a burger for 14-years?

A 14-year-old hamburger from McDonald's was reportedly preserved by a Utah resident and is still pretty much unchanged.

David Whipple reportedly bought the burger last July 7, 1999 as indicated on the receipt that is still with him. The burger was intended for an enzymes experiment by Whipple and his friends.

Whipple showed the 14-year -old burger to the TV show, "The Doctors." It is still mold-free and only the pickle was affected by time.



In a statement by McDonald's, the company explained that the long shelf life was not due to preservative. Below is the worldwide hamburger chain's explanation.

McDonald’s hamburgers are freshly prepared in our restaurants. While not knowing the conditions in which the food was kept in this specific claim, what is scientifically known is that in bacteria and mold only grow under certain conditions. 

For example, without sufficient moisture – either in the food itself or the environment in which it is held – bacteria and mold and associated decomposition, is unlikely. If food is/or becomes dry enough, it won’t grow mold or bacteria. In fact, any food purchased from a restaurant or grocery store or prepared at home that lacks moisture would also dehydrate and see similar results if left in the same environment. 

McDonald's hamburger patties in the U.S. are made with 100% USDA-inspected beef. They are cooked and prepared with salt, pepper and nothing else - no preservatives - no fillers. Our hamburger buns are made from North American-grown wheat flour. These are the same foods that people buy every day in their local grocery stores.