Oct 29 (Reuters) - McDonald's on Tuesday posted

a steeper-than-expected drop in quarterly global comparable

sales, hurt by weaker traffic across its key markets even as it

intensified promotions to woo back customers after several years

of price hikes.

Global sales fell 1.5% in the third quarter, the biggest

decline in four years, compared with analysts' average estimate

of a 0.72% fall, according to data compiled by LSEG.

The burger chain has been hit by slowing customer visits

across the U.S., Europe and China as price-conscious shoppers

looked for cheaper meal fixes and cooked more at home.

The sluggish demand has prompted fast-food chains including

Wendy's, Burger King and Taco Bell to lean into

meal bundles and limited-time offers in a bid to revive traffic,

especially among lower-income customers.

McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski said the company was

focused on affordability as customers continue to be mindful

about spending.

Last week, McDonald's temporarily paused serving Quarter

Pounders in a fifth of its 14,000 U.S. restaurants, following an

E. coli outbreak that has infected 75 people and killed at least

one person.

Slivered onions used in the hamburgers are likely to be the

source of the infection, with the Colorado Department of

Agriculture over the weekend ruling out beef patties as the

possible cause.

The company's conference call on earnings is expected to

focus on any fallout from the outbreak.

U.S. comparable sales grew 0.3% in the quarter ended Sept.

30, reversing the previous quarter's drop, partly aided by a $5

meal deal which has been extended into December at most

McDonald's locations.

Sales in international markets fell 2.1% driven by weakness

in France and Britain, compared with estimates of a 1.21% drop.

Weaker consumer spending in China and impacts of the Middle

East conflict have dented McDonald's business segment where

restaurants are operated by local partners, with sales dipping

3.5% compared with a 10.5% rise a year earlier.

The Chicago-based company earned $3.23 per share on an

adjusted basis in the quarter, compared with last year's $3.19.