Real reason McRib won't come back permanently as iconic McDonald’s sandwich returns today

McDonald's has finally brought back its iconic McRib sandwich, with the legendary menu item available to buy from today (16 October).

But it isn't a permanent return for the OG Maccies meal. Instead, it'll only be on the menu for a few weeks.

The return of the McRib is the first time it has been available in the UK for almost an entire decade, having last been sold on British shores back in December 2014.

It was first introduced in the UK in 1981 before being discontinued in 1985, with only a handful of brief returns since then.

Maccies hasn't said why it's made a comeback 10 years. But, really, is anyone questioning it? Let's all just form an orderly queue, whether in-person or in the drive-thru.

All we do know is that, for those who love the sandwich, the return is not permanent.

It's back (PAUL J. RICHARDS / AFP via Getty Images)

How much is the McRib?

You can get your hands on the McRib for £4.49 from today. If you want to add a drink and fries, a medium meal will set you back £6.19.

The Head of Menu at McDonald's UK, Thomas O'Neill, said: “It is more than just a sandwich, it’s a phenomenon. We have heard our fans loud and clear – the fan petitions and pleas on social - and after almost a decade of anticipation, we are thrilled to bring back this iconic menu item.

“Knowing how well-loved the McRib is, we had very little choice - we had to make it happen. It was time to step up and satisfy the cravings of McRib enthusiasts across the country."

It's here for a limited period of time (PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP via Getty Images))

Why is the McRib not coming back permanently?

It is all to do with McDonald's ability to cook it alongside its other products, according to the company itself. Capacity is an issue as well as mixing meats during the cooking process.

A McDonald's spokesperson said: "The McRib is a limited-edition product and will be available whilst stocks last.

"In the UK, we consider it important to separate pork and beef on the grill, so separate cooking processes and dedicated utensils have been implemented across our restaurants to allow us to satisfy McRib fans and finally bring it back to the UK."

The McRib will be cooked on the left sides of the grills to make sure they are kept separate from the beef products.

Maccies has previously said that 'many' of its restaurants simply don't have capacity to make the McRib a permanent menu item.

"The breakfast menu is different because we don't serve beef products, which allows us to have a dedicated grill for all our delicious pork products," the company said.

The McRib will remain at McDonald's for four weeks until 12 December.