McDonald's Finally Chimes In On the Toxic Ice Cream Rumor

A social media rumor has put Mickey D's soft-serve ice cream back in the spotlight. The chain's popular dessert is said to contain xylitol, a

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sugar-free sweetener used for its sweetness and low calories. McDonald's food myths are common and hard to believe, but the xylitol story has caught on.

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Why the fuss? Canine xylitol is poisonous and lethal. A viral Facebook post warned pet owners not to give their pets McDonald's ice cream

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Pet owners panicked, but the rumor was false. Sweetener isn't listed in the chain's soft serve or other desserts. McDonald's has clarified that its

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ice cream does not contain xylitol. To dispel suspicions, McDonald's told Indy100 that its soft-serve does not contain xylitol.

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The FDA considers xylitol safe for humans but hazardous to pets, especially dogs. The ASPCA warns that xylitol can damage your dog's liver and lower

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Canines absorb xylitol faster than humans, however effects may not manifest for 12 hours. This delay in symptoms may make it hard to determine your pet's disease.

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Xylitol, available in breath mints, gum, and toothpaste, is recommended by the American Dental Association. Fruits and vegetables contain it naturally.

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If you suspect your pet has taken xylitol, call your vet, emergency clinic, or animal poison control center immediately.

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