McDonald’s has responded to a lawsuit accusing the fast-food chain of misleading customers over the marketing of its McRib sandwich.
The lawsuit alleges that the McRib does not contain any actual pork rib meat, despite its name and rib-like appearance, according to a report cited by NBC Chicago.
Why is McDonald’s being sued over the McRib?
The lawsuit was filed on December 23 in the Northern District of Illinois by four individuals who claim McDonald’s “knowingly markets the sandwich in a way that deceives reasonable customers.”
According to McDonald’s official website, the McRib consists of “seasoned boneless pork dipped in a tangy BBQ sauce, topped with slivered onions and tangy pickles, all served on a toasted homestyle bun.”
However, the lawsuit alleges that the name “McRib” is a “deliberate sleight of hand,” arguing that despite its rib-like shape, the sandwich does not contain actual pork rib meat.
Allegations outlined in the lawsuit
The filing claims McDonald’s “willfully, falsely, and knowingly omitted various material facts regarding the quality and character” of the McRib sandwich.
According to the complaint, the company knew that these details would be material to reasonable consumers but failed to disclose them. The lawsuit also notes that the McRib is “among the most expensive individual items” on McDonald’s menu, costing up to $7.89 at some locations.
The suit includes 16 claims, including:
- Fraudulent omission or concealment
- Fraudulent misrepresentation
- Negligent misrepresentation
- Breach of contract
- Violations of consumer protection laws in California, Illinois, New York, and Washington, DC
McDonald’s response to the claims
McDonald’s rejected the allegations in a statement issued on Sunday, saying the lawsuit “distorts the facts and many of the claims are inaccurate.”
“Food quality and safety are at the heart of everything we do – that’s why we’re committed to using real, quality ingredients across our entire menu,” the company said.
McDonald’s added that the McRib is “made with 100% pork sourced from farmers and suppliers across the U.S.” and said it has “always been transparent about our ingredients so guests can make the right choice for them.”
Case status
The lawsuit is currently pending in federal court. No ruling has been issued, and McDonald’s has not indicated whether it plans to seek dismissal.
