The Most Famous Meal in the World Has a New York Ingredient

Millions of people across the globe have all eaten what is most likely the most famous meal ever made. Little do they know, it was made possible thanks to New York farmers.

New York State seems to always have a secret up its sleeve. From the longest tunnel on planet earth to the tallest lawn gnome, there's already plenty to brag about. Its other claim to fame, however, might be the most impressive yet.

There may never be a restaurant chain more famous than McDonald's. Its legendary golden arches may have started in the United States, but the chain is now a worldwide staple. So is their most famous offering.

You'd be hard pressed to find a child (or adult) in America that hasn't heard of the Happy Meal. Specifically targeted at children, there have been several changes over the years aimed to make the meal seem more healthful. That's where New York State comes in.

In 2011, McDonald's started adding apple slices to their Happy Meals. Since apples are very perishable, American producers were essential to making the addition work. As New York State Senator Pam Helming shares (below), New York is a big part of that success.

Senator Helming shared that apples from Wayne County, NY are in many regional Happy Meals, and thanks to cold-store technology, the fruit is kept fresh for the mega-franchise year-round.

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New York is only behind Washington State for apple production in the United States, so it's no wonder why McDonald's would turn to upstate farmers to help fill their Happy Meals. Check out more New York specialties below.