Joe Raedle/Getty Images

McDonald’s is offering a $5 value meal to lure back customers who are turned off by the high price of menu items.

Fast food used to be the best economical option for families on the go. But today, customers struggle to feed their families.

Back in the day, a McDonald’s value meal, including a burger, drink and small fries cost $1.99. Now a Quarter Pounder® with Cheese Meal costs $16.

People who can still afford to eat at McDonald’s complain that the burger meat is thinner than the pickles.

The fast food giant blames the economy for the high prices on its menus. But customers don’t want to hear excuses. The fast food restaurant has taken a hit of its profits — which is bad news for shareholders.

McDonald’s corporate is in talks with franchise owners to offer a new $5 budget meal after seeing a substantial decrease in customers dining in at its restaurants.

According to CBS News, McDonald’s is considering offering a $5 value meal to help drive consumers back.

If franchise owners agree, the meal would include a choice of either a McChicken, a McDouble, or 4-piece chicken nuggets, as well as small fries and a drink.

“It’s imperative that we continue to keep affordability at the forefront for our customers,” McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski said at the April 30 earnings call.

But will it be enough to drive customers back into the restaurants?

Customers have taken to social media to complain about the soaring prices of fast food.