Here’s The Real Reason You Should Never Use The Ketchup Packets At McDonald’s

The real reason you shouldn't use the ketcup packets at McDonald's actually has nothing to do with calories, carbs or fats. Ketchup is made with sugar and high fructose corn syrup, but a small amount of the condiment isn't enough to make a difference in your diet.

The ketchup packets from McDonald's are bad for you because there is a good chance that they are spoiled. The plasticky metal packets that hold the ketchup can't keep the food from going bad over a long period of time. They all have an expiration date, but you can't see it because it is usually listed on the box the packets come in, rather than the individual packets.

Most ketchup packets can only last one year from production until they expire. While this seems like a long time, there is no way to know how old your individual ketchup packet actually is. You can usually tell if the ketchup has gone bad once you open it because they flavor, smell or color may be off.

Next time, forgo the ketchup packet and use your own bottled condiment from home so you can be sure you're not eating expired food.