A federal judge has refused to throw out a proposed class action accusing McDonald’s of misleading customers about what’s in its McRib sandwich.
On Friday, U.S. District Judge April Perry in Chicago denied McDonald’s request to dismiss the case entirely. The consumer deception, fraud and unjust enrichment claims can move forward. Five other claims were dismissed without prejudice, which means the plaintiffs may be able to refile them.
What the lawsuit alleges
Four consumers filed the suit in December 2025. They argue that the McRib’s name and rib-shaped patty are designed to make buyers think they’re getting pork rib meat, a pricier cut. According to the complaint, the patty is instead made from lower-grade pork parts, including shoulder, heart, tripe and stomach.
Why the judge let it proceed
Perry said it was too early to accept McDonald’s argument that no reasonable consumer would expect a sandwich called the McRib to contain rib meat. She also said advertising that highlights the patty’s rib-like shape could support a claim of intent to defraud, though she noted the plaintiffs will need more proof.
The ruling cited two consumer surveys submitted by the plaintiffs. In one, 72% of respondents (155 of 215) said they expected the McRib to contain rib meat. In the other, 67% (118 of 174) said rib meat was important or very important to their decision to buy it.
McDonald’s response
McDonald’s has denied the allegations. In earlier statements about the suit, the company said the McRib is made with 100% pork from U.S. farmers and suppliers, and it has disputed claims that the sandwich contains organ meat.
What happens next
The ruling doesn’t mean McDonald’s did anything wrong. It only means the plaintiffs’ claims are legally sufficient to continue. The case, Le et al. v. McDonald’s Corp. (No. 1:25-cv-15609, N.D. Ill.), now moves toward discovery, and the plaintiffs must still ask the court to certify a class.
The McRib debuted in 1981 and is best known for its limited-time returns, which draw a devoted following. How the case plays out could influence how restaurant chains name and market menu items.
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