Grimace Shake- If you’ve been anywhere near TikTok or Instagram in 2025, you’ve probably come across the peculiar yet wildly entertaining “Grimace Shake” trend. What started as a nostalgic menu item has transformed into a full-blown internet phenomenon. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the Grimace Shake—from its origins and viral rise to how to make your own, the safety concerns, and why it’s not just another internet fad.
What Is the Grimace Shake?
The Grimace Shake is a limited-time milkshake released by McDonald’s in June 2023 to celebrate the birthday of Grimace, one of the fast-food chain’s beloved but mysterious mascots. The shake itself is a purple, berry-flavoured drink with a creamy vanilla base, often topped with whipped cream.
Originally part of a promotional meal known as the “Grimace Birthday Meal,” the drink quickly went viral—not because of its taste, but because of what internet users began doing with it.
Why Did the Grimace Shake Go Viral?
The TikTok Trend
Shortly after its release, creators on TikTok began posting exaggerated, horror-themed videos where they would take a sip of the shake and then “cut” to chaotic scenes of themselves unconscious, covered in purple goo, or in bizarre positions—suggesting the shake had possessed or harmed them.
This ironic horror storytelling format became a meme. Within weeks, the hashtag #GrimaceShake racked up over 1.5 billion views on TikTok, making it one of the fastest-growing food trends in recent memory.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time pop culture has created buzz in unexpected ways. Think of how figures like Rebecca Goodwin and Jake Cornish became viral names due to reality TV and internet fandoms. The Grimace Shake just taps into that same collective curiosity.
What’s Actually in the Grimace Shake?
Though McDonald’s hasn’t disclosed the full ingredient list, nutritional information indicates the following:
Base: Vanilla soft serve
Flavouring: Berry (possibly blueberry and raspberry blend)
Colour: Bright purple (FD&C Red 40 and Blue 1)
Toppings: Whipped cream (optional)
According to McDonald’s USA, one Grimace Shake contains approximately:
Calories: 590
Sugar: 74g
Fat: 15g
Protein: 11g
Compare that with how much hidden sugar you might unknowingly consume through everyday items—something as surprising as dishwasher tablets potentially harboring unknown chemical residues. It’s a reminder to be mindful of what goes into your body, even with novelty treats.
How to Make a Grimace Shake at Home
Can’t get one from McDonald’s? Here’s a simple DIY guide to recreate the Grimace Shake experience in your kitchen.
Ingredients
2 scoops vanilla ice cream
½ cup whole milk
½ cup blueberries (frozen or fresh)
¼ cup raspberries
A drop of red and blue food colouring (if you want the iconic purple hue)
Whipped cream (for topping)
Instructions
Blend the milk, ice cream, blueberries, and raspberries until smooth.
Add a drop of red and blue food dye to adjust the colour.
Top with whipped cream and serve chilled.
Want to add a cheeky twist? Take inspiration from a drama icon like Chrissie Watts and make your shake presentation theatrical—perfect for sharing on social!
Cultural Significance of Grimace
Grimace was introduced in the 1970s as a lovable, rotund, purple character who originally had four arms and a penchant for stealing milkshakes. Over time, his image softened to become Ronald McDonald’s shy, well-meaning friend.
The Grimace Shake trend revived interest in the character and sparked debates over what exactly Grimace is. Is he a taste bud? A blob? McDonald’s only offers cryptic hints, adding to the meme potential.
Is the Grimace Shake Safe?
Yes, the Grimace Shake is just a normal berry-flavoured milkshake. The horror-themed videos online are entirely scripted and part of a larger satire movement. However, the drink is high in sugar and calories, which may concern health-conscious individuals.
According to a 2024 report by the British Nutrition Foundation, regularly consuming drinks with over 50g of sugar can significantly increase the risk of:
Type 2 Diabetes
Tooth Decay
Obesity
So while the Grimace Shake is all in good fun, just remember—it’s not for every day. And definitely not something to binge like a Liverpool vs Southampton match replay with snacks on the side.
Recent 2025 Updates
As of early 2025, McDonald’s has not officially brought back the Grimace Shake to the UK market, though it remains a hot topic online. Influencers in London and Manchester have started remixing the concept by creating their own versions using local ingredients.
Similarly, just as football fans eagerly track updates like the Bayern vs RB Leipzig 2025 matchup, foodies and meme-followers alike are still hoping for a Grimace Shake reboot.
Real-Life Examples of Grimace Shake Trends
TikTok Creators’ Influence
TikTok user @scarysips posted a Grimace Shake video that received 12 million views, where the drink “haunts” him through multiple jump scares in his flat.
UK Cafés Join the Fun
A few cafés in Leeds and Liverpool have created their own berry-themed “Grimace Shakes,” branded as “Meme Milkshakes,” featuring purple whipped cream, edible glitter, and QR codes linking to spoof horror videos.
These meme-inspired menus are becoming just as creatively competitive as the Kilmarnock F.C. vs Celtic F.C. stats on game day—everyone’s trying to outdo each other.
Merch and More
Etsy creators are now selling GrimaceShake t-shirts, mugs, and even slime, capitalising on the trend’s cultural clout. Much like interest around high-profile relationships such as Kate Abdo and her husband, the Grimace Shake continues to dominate pop conversations.
Practical Tips for Participating Safely in the Trend
Stay safe with props: Don’t actually spill liquids or risk injury when making parody videos.
Mind your audience: Add disclaimers if your content may confuse younger viewers.
Avoid allergens: If you’re making a homemade version, double-check ingredients if you’re lactose intolerant or allergic to berries.
Use trending tags: For reach, include hashtags like #GrimaceShake, #TikTokTrend, and #FoodMeme2025.
Create responsibly: Don’t include gore or graphic violence in your videos; keep it quirky, not disturbing.
Final Thoughts
The Grimace Shake may have started as a limited-edition McDonald’s menu item, but it quickly became something far bigger—a meme, a movement, and a modern pop-culture marker. Whether you’re sipping it in real life or participating in the meme online, the GrimaceShake reflects our modern love of viral content and community-driven humour.
So next time you’re craving something quirky, whip up your own version and enjoy the laugh—no purple goo required.
FAQs
What is the Grimace Shake trend about?
The trend involves people pretending that drinking the GrimaceShake causes bizarre or horror-themed effects, popularised through TikTok videos in a satirical style.
Can I still buy a Grimace Shake in the UK in 2025?
As of 2025, McDonald’s has not re-released the GrimaceShake in the UK, but some independent cafés are offering similar versions.
Is the Grimace Shake safe to drink?
Yes, it’s just a berry-flavoured milkshake. The viral horror videos are purely for entertainment.
What does the Grimace Shake taste like?
It’s a creamy blend of vanilla ice cream and mixed berries, often compared to a blueberry cheesecake milkshake.
How do I make a Grimace Shake at home?
Blend vanilla ice cream, milk, blueberries, raspberries, and food colouring. Top with whipped cream and enjoy responsibly.
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