A class-action lawsuit against McDonald’s over its McRib sandwich has been allowed to proceed by Judge April M. Perry in Chicago. The suit claims the sandwich is misleadingly named, as it contains no actual rib meat—only seasoned boneless pork, primarily from the pork shoulder.
McDonald’s defends the name, citing the “Mc” prefix as indicating brand origin, not ingredient. The judge noted that while “McChicken” contains chicken, “McRib” does not, and compared it to absurdities like “dinosaur nuggets” lacking dinosaur meat. However, she argued the McRib is closer to literal interpretation since real rib meat exists.
The lawsuit seeks damages and a halt to misleading marketing. McDonald’s maintains the sandwich is made with 100% U.S.-sourced pork and that claims are inaccurate. The McRib, available seasonally since 1981, has a cult following and often costs up to $8, which plaintiffs argue implies higher-quality ingredients.
Most claims will move forward, though some were dismissed.
Source: New York Times Business · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing