McDonald’s sued over McRib lacking rib meat

A recent class-action lawsuit filed in Illinois federal court has brought McDonald’s McRib sandwich into the spotlight. The lawsuit alleges that McDonald’s has been misleading customers about the meat used in the sandwich, suggesting that it contains premium pork ribs when it actually does not.

According to CBS News, the lawsuit, filed at the end of December, claims that McDonald’s marketing tactics and the rib-like shape of the McRib patty may lead consumers to believe that the sandwich is made from spare or baby back ribs. However, in reality, the meat in the McRib is boneless pork that has been shaped to resemble a rack of ribs.

McDonald’s has refuted these claims, asserting that the ingredients of the McRib are accurately disclosed and that the sandwich is made with 100% seasoned boneless pork. The company emphasized that food quality and transparency are fundamental to its operations.

The plaintiffs behind the lawsuit argue that they would not have purchased the McRib, or would have paid less for it, if they had known how the meat was prepared. The McRib, which made its debut in 1981, made a limited return in November 2025 after McDonald’s had previously announced it would be discontinued.

This legal action highlights the importance of transparency in food marketing and consumer trust in the ingredients used by fast-food chains. Customers rely on accurate information when making purchasing decisions, especially when it comes to food products that have specific dietary or ethical considerations.

In conclusion, lawsuits like the one against McDonald’s serve as a reminder for companies to ensure that their marketing accurately represents the products they offer. Transparency and honesty in labeling and advertising are crucial for maintaining consumer trust and loyalty. As the case progresses, it will be interesting to see how McDonald’s responds to the allegations and how the company navigates the potential impact on its brand reputation in the eyes of consumers.