Plaintiffs Claim McRib Isn’t What It Seems
The federal government has taken McDonald’s to court, alleging that the popular McRib sandwich is misleadingly marketed as containing real pork ribs. This lawsuit, filed on December 23 in Illinois, points to the sandwich’s name and packaging, which the plaintiffs believe would mislead an average consumer into thinking it has actual rib meat.
The key ingredient in the McRib, a fan-favorite that pops up intermittently on menus, is primarily made from reconstituted pork derived from various parts like shoulder, heart, tripe, and yes, even burnt stomach.
This legal battle includes 16 different claims, such as fraud, breach of warranty, and violations of state consumer protection laws. The plaintiffs argue that the McRib’s limited availability discourages customers from looking closely at its ingredients.
Among those bringing the lawsuit are Peter Lee, Charles Lynch, Dorien Baker, and Derrick Wilson. They are seeking a federal class certification for millions of individuals who bought McRibs over the last four years, as well as a subclass certification for consumers in California, New York, Illinois, and Washington, D.C.
A McDonald’s representative stated that the McRib does not contain heart, tripe, or burnt stomach. Instead, they assert it consists of 100 percent boneless pork, barbecue sauce, onions, and pickles. According to them, “This lawsuit misrepresents the facts, and many of the claims are inaccurate. Food quality and safety are fundamental to our operations, which is why we focus on using authentic, high-quality ingredients.” They emphasized transparency regarding ingredients to aid customers in making informed choices.
The McRib first appeared in 1982 and has maintained a fervent following, partly due to its unpredictable reappearance on McDonald’s menus. The sandwiches are molded into a rib-like shape using a special press, mimicking the look of a rack of ribs with their distinct ridges.
Fans are so passionate that they regularly check a dedicated website tracking its comeback to the menus.
