Judge Keeps McRib Class Action Against McDonald's Alive

A federal judge in Illinois denied McDonald's request to dismiss a class action lawsuit over the McRib. The ruling allows the case to proceed, centering on allegations that the fast food chain misled consumers about the meat composition of its popular sandwich.

Plaintiffs filed the suit in December 2025. They argue that McDonald's used false representations and omissions when marketing the product. The complaint states that the company described the sandwich as a premium pork rib item, even though it is crafted to resemble a rack of ribs but contains no actual rib meat. Instead, the suit claims the patty is made from lower-grade pork products.

The lawsuit contends that these marketing choices caused consumers to purchase the item or pay a higher price than they would have had they known the full details. The plaintiffs describe the labeling and marketing as a deceptive practice that affected a large number of buyers.

McDonald's previously challenged the legal basis of the suit. In a statement to Reuters, the company called the claims meritless and argued that the lawsuit distorts the facts. The chain also told ABC News that it has always been transparent about its ingredients so guests can make the right choice for them.

The McRib description on McDonald's website refers to a McRib Pork Patty without specifying the cut of meat. The judge's decision rejects the argument that the case should end at the motion to dismiss stage.

McDonald's must file a formal response to the complaint by November 20.