Key Development

McDonald’s is contesting a class-action lawsuit filed in the Northern District of Illinois that accuses the fast-food chain of misleading customers about the meat used in its McRib sandwich. The plaintiffs allege that despite its name and rib-like shape, the McRib does not contain pork rib meat. In response, McDonald’s said the allegations distort facts and misrepresent its practices. The company stated that food quality and safety guide its operations and reiterated that the McRib is made with 100% pork sourced from U.S. farmers and suppliers.

Marketing Strategy Under Scrutiny

The lawsuit points to the McRib’s limited-time availability, arguing that its sporadic return to menus creates urgency and discourages consumers from closely examining its ingredients. It also claims that higher pricing in some locations strengthens perceptions of premium meat content.

Ingredient Disclosure Highlighted

McDonald’s said it has been transparent about the McRib’s composition. On its website, the company describes the sandwich as seasoned boneless pork in barbecue sauce, served as a pork patty with onions and pickles, without describing the meat as rib cuts.

Legal Relief Sought

The plaintiffs are seeking class certification for customers who purchased the McRib over the past four years, along with damages, restitution and injunctive relief under consumer protection laws in several U.S. jurisdictions. McDonald’s said it intends to defend itself against the claims.

Source: Livemint