The Big Mac, introduced nationally by McDonald’s in 1968, became one of the world’s best-known fast-food brands.
The sandwich was created by franchisee Jim Delligatti, who operated restaurants in the Pittsburgh area. It used two beef patties, a middle bun layer, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions and a special sauce. Its distinctive name and construction made it unusually recognizable within McDonald’s branding.
Delligatti tested the sandwich before McDonald’s adopted it nationally in 1968. The product became more than a menu item: it supported memorable advertising, international recognition and later economic comparisons such as The Economist’s Big Mac Index.
The Big Mac is not the same as the Quarter Pounder. The Big Mac is identified by its two patties and three-part bun, while the Quarter Pounder’s name refers to the pre-cooking weight of its beef patty.