A class-action lawsuit accusing McDonald’s of misleading consumers about the meat in its McRib sandwich can proceed, after U.S. District Judge April M. Perry ruled last week in Chicago.
The lawsuit argues that the McRib’s name and rib-shaped appearance may lead customers to expect rib meat, which it says is not used in the sandwich. Rib meat is more expensive than other cuts of pork, according to the complaint.
McDonald’s describes the McRib’s meat on its website as “seasoned boneless pork.” The company told ABC News in 2013 that it was pork shoulder. The lawsuit alleges that other parts of the pig are also used.
The complaint calls the company’s marketing a “deliberate sleight of hand.” It seeks unspecified monetary damages and asks McDonald’s to stop the naming, marketing and advertising practices that the plaintiffs say mislead consumers.
Sources: The New York Times Business.