McDonalds' Sodas May Get Cheaper

Sugary soft drinks may already be rare on school grounds and bottles and cans of soda could be subject to higher taxes, but at McDonald’s, the cost of a soda might be getting cheaper just in time for kids’ summer break.

Regardless of size, the heavily corn-syrup-laced drinks could cost just $1 starting this summer at McDonald’s, The Wall Street Journalreports.

And with the fast-food chain’s seemingly ubiquitous presence in the U.S., the measure aimed at boosting summer sales could hinder schools’ and soft drink companies’ recent efforts to combat obesity. Especially since, from a personal finance standpoint, why would you want a small soda for $1 and not a large one?

McDonald’s could be hurting its own obesity-fighting efforts like offering healthier menu options such as salads and posting calorie counts on menus, if sodas make it to the dollar menu.

Currently, the suggested price for a large soft drink at McDonald’s (Stock Quote: MCD) is $1.39, the Journal reports, but prices can be significantly higher depending on your location. The price reduction could put McDonald’s in direct competition with convenience stores like 7-Eleven, which sells the legendary 64-ounce Big Gulp.

A large McDonald’s fountain drink, which is 32 ounces, packs 86 grams of sugar and 310 calories. Compare that to a regular McDonald’s cheeseburger with ketchup, mustard, pickles and onions, which rings in at just 300 calories, and is possibly more satisfying.

Last summer, at some locations, a large McDonald’s Sweet Tea, with about 59 grams of sugar, went for just $1. That compares to 40 grams of sugar, equivalent to 10 teaspoons, in a regular 12-ounce can of Coke (Stock Quote: KO).

If these stats disgust you, check out MainStreet’s story on the most healthy fast-food menu options. If not, here’s some other stuff you can get at fast-food joints for a buck.

And if you’re a senior who’s just looking for discount when dining out, check out 20 Restaurant Deals for Seniors.