In a similar lawsuit against Burger King, the chain claimed that “reasonable consumers” are well aware that marketing material for food is designed to entice people. However, they deny any misleading accusations, noting that a quarter pound of beef is always used for every whopper. Of course, defining what constitutes a “reasonable consumer” can be legally complicated.
While the rise of chatter in online communities like Reddit has created more awareness around companies’ clever marketing strategies and unrealistic product promotions, social media marketing may be every fast food chain’s new ticket to transparency. In TikTok and YouTube’s respective food-review niches, viewers can see real versions of products and receive honest reviews from creators they trust.
Additionally, McDonald’s and Burger King were sued for misrepresentation in 2022 due to their use of PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” in their packaging, which consumers claimed were health risks. This speaks to another growing issue surrounding food safety laws and consumers’ rising awareness: Ultimately, fast food marketing trends must follow consumer demands, and some are predicting a “wellness wave” approaching as the push for healthier choices, simple ingredients, and more sustainability grows among younger consumers.