Jumping on the black burger trend following some truly bizarre looking buns from Burger King, McDonalds Japan launched their own Halloween version. Made with squid ink, the black burger buns aren't quite as blackened as Burger King's. The whitish sesame seeds are still plainly visible. In some pictures customers took of their burgers, they looked more brown than black. The cheese and other toppings are also their regular color. The most recent black burger incarnation from BK included dark American cheese as well. Both are limited editions, however.
Otherwise known as the ikasumi burger, the squid ink burger also has a spicy yellow sauce and fried onions, and is not just a regular quarter pounder with cheese. It is available in three locations in Shinjuku, Tokyo.
Squid Ink Cheeseburgers
This Black Burger from McDonalds Japan is to Celebrate Halloween
Trend Themes
1. Black Burger Trend - Opportunity to innovate with unique colored burger buns using natural ingredients like squid ink.
2. Limited Edition Burgers - Chance to create buzz and boost sales by introducing exclusive, time-limited burger offerings.
3. Unique Burger Toppings - Potential to create innovative and memorable burger experiences by experimenting with non-traditional toppings like spicy yellow sauce and fried onions.
Industry Implications
1. Fast Food Industry - Fast food chains can capitalize on the black burger trend by introducing their own unique versions to attract customers.
2. Specialty Food Industry - Specialty food companies can explore innovative ways to incorporate natural food coloring like squid ink to create visually striking and unique food products.
3. Restaurant Industry - Restaurants of various types can take inspiration from the limited edition burger concept to introduce seasonal or themed menu items that generate excitement among customers.