The McRib is one of McDonald’s most iconic and mysterious menu items. It appears for a limited time, disappears without warning, and instantly sparks massive demand whenever it returns.
But now, a new class-action lawsuit is putting the McRib under the spotlight — and customers are asking an uncomfortable question:
Is the McRib actually made from rib meat at all?
The legal challenge has triggered widespread discussion online, with many McDonald’s fans saying they feel misled. Here’s everything customers need to know about the McRib lawsuit and why it’s becoming one of the hottest McDonald’s news stories in 2026.
What Is the McDonald’s McRib Lawsuit About?
In late 2025, several customers filed a class-action lawsuit against McDonald’s in the United States, claiming the fast-food giant used deceptive marketing when selling the McRib.
The lawsuit argues that:
- The name “McRib” strongly implies the sandwich contains rib meat
- The rib-shaped patty reinforces that expectation
- Customers were allegedly led to believe they were buying a premium pork rib product
According to the complaint, this presentation caused customers to pay higher prices for a sandwich that does not actually contain pork rib meat.
If the case is certified as a class action, millions of McRib buyers across the U.S. could be affected.
What Is the McRib Actually Made Of?
The lawsuit claims the McRib patty is made from restructured pork, not ribs (Fortune). Restructured meat is created by grinding various pork cuts and shaping them into a uniform form.
The filing alleges the McRib may include pork sourced from:
- Pork shoulder
- Other processed pork cuts
- Meat shaped and seasoned to resemble ribs
While this type of meat is legal and commonly used in fast food, customers argue the issue isn’t safety — it’s expectation versus reality.
Why Customers Are Upset About the McRib
From a customer’s point of view, this controversy hits several sensitive points:
1. The Name Creates a Clear Expectation
Many customers say that calling the sandwich the “McRib” naturally leads people to assume it contains rib meat — especially when paired with rib-style branding and sauces.
2. The McRib Is Not a Budget Item
Unlike standard McDonald’s burgers, the McRib is often priced as a premium limited-time item. Some customers report paying significantly more than for a Big Mac or Quarter Pounder.
3. Transparency Matters More Than Ever
Modern fast-food customers increasingly care about ingredients, sourcing, and honest labeling. Even loyal McDonald’s fans say they expect clearer communication.
McDonald’s Response to the Lawsuit
McDonald’s has denied any wrongdoing (NBC Chicago).
The company states that:
- The McRib is made with 100% pork
- The sandwich is accurately described
- The lawsuit misrepresents the product
McDonald’s has not announced any changes to the McRib’s name or marketing as of now. The legal process is ongoing, and the case has not yet reached a final ruling.
How Social Media and Customers Are Reacting
Customer reaction online has been intense and divided.
On forums and social platforms:
- Some customers say they feel disappointed or misled
- Others argue that fast food has always used processed meats
- Many say they would still buy the McRib — but want clearer labeling
The discussion has sparked renewed debate about truth in fast-food marketing, especially for limited-time menu items that rely heavily on nostalgia and hype.
What This Means for Fast Food Customers in 2026
The McRib lawsuit highlights a bigger trend in the fast-food industry:
- Customers are demanding more transparency
- Brand trust directly affects loyalty
- Product names and visuals are facing greater legal scrutiny
Even if McDonald’s ultimately wins the case, the attention alone could push fast-food brands to rethink how they market popular menu items.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the McRib contain real pork?
Yes, the McRib is made from pork. The lawsuit focuses on whether it contains pork rib meat specifically.
Is the McRib being discontinued?
No. There is no indication that McDonald’s plans to discontinue the McRib due to the lawsuit.
Can customers get refunds?
At this time, there are no refunds or settlements announced. The case is still ongoing.
Final Thoughts: Why This McDonald’s News Matters
The McRib lawsuit isn’t just about one sandwich — it’s about customer trust, transparency, and expectations.
For McDonald’s fans, it raises questions about how iconic menu items are marketed. For the fast-food industry, it’s a reminder that customers today pay close attention to what they’re buying — and why.
As the case unfolds, one thing is clear: the McRib remains one of the most talked-about fast-food items in America, both on and off the menu.
