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McDonald's must face lawsuit over McRib, US judge rules
Reuters • • business
Key Points:
- Plaintiffs allege McDonald's intentionally shapes McRib patties with ridges to mimic pork ribs, misleading consumers into believing the sandwich contains rib meat, a pricier and more flavorful cut.
- The lawsuit claims McDonald's uses lower-grade pork parts like shoulder, heart, tripe, or stomach, causing customers to overpay for the McRib, one of the chain's most expensive items.
- US District Judge April Perry ruled it premature to dismiss claims, noting McDonald's website only states "pork" and reasonable consumers shouldn't need extensive research for a $7 sandwich; ads emphasizing rib-like shape could suggest intent to defraud.
- McDonald's denies using low-quality pork parts and insists it has been transparent about ingredients, calling the lawsuit's claims "meritless" and a distortion of facts.
- The case reflects broader legal challenges fast-food chains face over advertising and product representation, with plaintiffs seeking accountability for alleged deceptive marketing.
