In-N-Out tweaks classic burger formula
In‑N‑Out posted on its Facebook page that, beginning this calendar year, the buns sold in ten states will no longer contain the sesame‑based additive that the company introduced in 2024.
The update affects ten states.
Roughly 1.6 million Americans report a sesame allergy, which often forces them to request burgers “protein‑style” so they can avoid the bun altogether.
One commenter praised the change, saying it is a significant improvement for many families dealing with allergies. Another user expressed gratitude for finally having a safe option for a child who previously could not eat at the restaurant.
Beyond Buns: Sugar and Salt Updates
Beyond the bun revision, the chain swapped high‑fructose corn syrup for real sugar in its ketchup recipe slated for 2025, and earlier this year they replaced iodized‑salt packets with sea‑salt versions.
The adjustment aligns with the FASTER Act, legislation signed in 2021 that required clear labeling of sesame as an allergen starting in January 2023. Some manufacturers reacted by adding the additive to products rather than cleaning equipment, a practice the CEO of FARE, Sung Poblete, PhD, RN, criticized.
For diners, the removal means the standard bun can now be ordered without extra cost or special preparation, eliminating a routine work‑around that many had to employ.
How Competitors Are Tackling Sesame
Other restaurant chains have taken comparable steps. In 2022, Olive Garden and Chick‑fil‑A began including the additive in breadsticks and white buns, respectively.
Olive Garden later reversed its breadstick formula after changing suppliers, while Chick‑fil‑A continues to list the ingredient on its menu.
Gluten‑Free Bun Adds $1.15 Surcharge
Customers who still need a sesame‑free option may choose a gluten‑free bun, which adds an additional $1.15 to the total charge.
The new bun formula is now the standard in the states where the change was announced, whereas locations outside those areas continue using the previous recipe.
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The September 8 Facebook announcement also noted that the sesame‑free buns will be used uniformly across all outlets in the affected states, ensuring consistency for guests traveling within the region.
While the ten‑state rollout marks a clear shift, the company indicated that other locations will retain the original formulation until a later decision is made, providing time for staff to adjust inventory and training.
Eliminating the need to order “protein‑style” not only streamlines the ordering process for those with allergies but also reduces the likelihood of cross‑contact, as the bun is now free of the allergen from the start.
Positive reactions on the post were numerous, with several users highlighting that the change expands the restaurant’s accessibility for families who previously avoided it entirely.
The transition to sea‑salt packets earlier this year was presented as a flavor‑enhancing move, replacing the standard iodized packets while also aligning with broader trends toward less processed seasonings.
Under the FASTER Act, manufacturers were required to list sesame on ingredient statements, a mandate that inadvertently prompted some brands to add sesame flour rather than invest in thorough cleaning protocols, a point showed by industry watchdogs.
By removing sesame from the bun, kitchen staff no longer need to flag orders for special preparation, which simplifies service flow and reduces the chance of human error during busy periods.
Olive Garden’s supplier switch in 2023 removed sesame from its breadsticks, demonstrating how ingredient sourcing decisions can directly affect allergen presence in menu items.
The gluten‑free bun, while a viable sesame‑free alternative, carries a modest surcharge, reflecting the additional cost of specialized ingredients and preparation methods.
Travelers moving between states may notice the difference in bun composition, a reminder that regional regulatory compliance can lead to varied menu experiences within the same national chain.
