I heard that some vegetarians sued McDonald’s for using beef flavoring in its French fries. Who won?

McDonald’s got into hot water with vegetarians when it advertised that its fries were cooked in vegetable oil, but didn’t readily disclose that the fries were flavored with beef tallow.

McDonald’s was sued by several vegetarians and Hindus who do not eat meat for ethical and/or religious reasons. McDonald’s agreed to issue an apology and pay $10 million to vegetarian and religious groups. While the French fries still contain beef flavoring at this time, we’re hopeful that the lawsuit will help persuade McDonald’s to remove it.

The Vegetarian Resource Group has a list of the vegetarian and vegan items that are available at most popular fast-food restaurants. Click here, for more information.

PETA encourages everyone to request vegan items at fast-food restaurants. Burger King has responded to consumer demand by offering a vegetarian burger, the BK Veggie. We’re hopeful McDonald’s will follow suit. You can help by asking McDonald’s to offer a vegan burger at all of its restaurants.