A nasty surprise is in store for thieves who want more than fries with their burgers at McDonald's in Australia.
The fast-food chain is fighting back, trialling an invisible DNA spray called SelectaDNA which is triggered by a panic button during an emergency.
As they flee, offenders are sprayed with a solution that stays on their skin for two weeks and clothing for up to six months.
Police can see the markings left by the system using a UV light and link the offender back to the scene.
SelectaDNA marketers claim an '85 percent' crime reduction rate, however they say it works best as a crime prevention method through the "DNA fear factor", according to news website news.com.au.
The spray is currently being used by McDonald’s busiest stores across New South Wales. If successful, it will be extended to all of the chain's 780 outlets across Australia.
The spray has previously been used in McDonald’s outlets in Britain and Europe.
RadioLIVE / 3 News