CSPI to Sue McDonalds over Toy-Related Promotions

WASHINGTONThe Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) served McDonalds a notice of its intent to file a lawsuit alleging McDonalds Happy Meals toy-related promotions violate state consumer protection laws in Massachusetts, Texas, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and California. CSPIs letter gives McDonalds 30 days to agree to stop the practice before a suit is filed.

CSPI claims using toys to lure small children into McDonalds is unfair and deceptive marketing and is illegal under various state consumer protection laws.

McDonalds is the stranger in the playground handing out candy to children, said CSPI litigation director Stephen Gardner. McDonalds use of toys undercuts parental authority and exploits young childrens developmental immaturityall this to induce children to prefer foods that may harm their health. Its a creepy and predatory practice that warrants an injunction.

McDonalds is currently offering children toys related to Dreamworks latest Shrek movie. While Shrek may appear on packaging for low-fat milk and Apple Dippers, when children or parents order Happy Meals they are given French fries 93 percent of the time, noted a CSPI study.