More than just fast food

McDonald’s more than just fast food, it is good food served fast.
The saying, ignorance is bliss, it has always applied to me when eating at a restaurant. The long and short of it is:  I don't want to know what happens in the kitchen, because I fear I might then never eat out.
Visiting the McDonald's restaurant in Lephalale during its Grand Opening on Saturday and getting the chance to walk through their kitchen was, however, an eye opening experience for me.
They call it the science of McDonald's  - everything is measured and timed. From the amount of salt and sauce to the time that a meat patty takes to be placed on a burger is calculated to perfection. Every inch of the kitchen is planned to save seconds and ensure a fresh and surprisingly healthy meal. (I shamefully admit that I put a lot more sodium in my kids meals than what you would find in a McDonald's meal.)
The thing that impressed me most, apart from the cleanliness, was the fact that everything related to food safety is computerised. It is not left to an employee to decide when to change the oil. The quality of the oil is constantly measured electronically and then filtered and refilled when necessary. 
Speaking to the corporate affairs director of McDonald’s in South Africa, Sechaba Motsieloa, I quickly realised that McDonald’s is far more than just a fast food outlet. It is about community support and the upliftment of local residents through job opportunities and educational programmes for schools in the area. The company has, for three consecutive years, been voted the Best Company to Work For by its employees.
A popular saying within the organisation is that, “If you look after your staff they will look after your business (customers).”
McDonald’s in Lephalale currently employs 30 local people who will, through the McDonald’s training programme, have ample opportunity to learn operational skills, managerial skills and also about safety and health issues.
There is also opportunity for schools in the area to participate in the McDonald’s u/14 Schools Soccer League. According to Motsieloa, the company is committed to teach children about the importance of being healthy and staying active. Schools can also participate in a restaurant tour to be exposed to the various business aspects within McDonald’s.