They say McDonald's is violating several consumer-protection laws by marketing its Happy Meals directly to young children because it exploits children's vulnerability.
"What kids see as a fun toy, I now realize is a sophisticated, high-tech marketing scheme that's designed to put McDonald's between me and my daughters," [image-nocss] said Monet Parham, of Sacramento, Calif. "For the sake of other parents and their children, I want McDonald's to stop interfering with my family."
Parham's lawyers, who filed the lawsuit in state court in San Francisco on Wednesday, have asked that it be certified as a class action, according to AP. The lawsuit doesn't seek damages; it asks the court to bar McDonald's from advertising any meals that feature toys to California children.
McDonald's said it is proud of its Happy Meals and intends to vigorously defend its brand, reputation and food.
"We stand on our 30-year track record of providing a fun experience for kids and families at McDonald's," the company said in a statement.
McDonald's, the world's largest burger chain, is facing scrutiny for including toys with meals. San Francisco recently prohibited them in meals with more than 600 calories or more than 35% of their calories from fat. Santa Clara County, home of Silicon Valley, has a similar ban. But city leaders in Superior, Wis., this month decided against regulating toys in fast-food meals.
The consumer group said it is focusing on McDonald's because it is the largest fast-food company and spends more money marketing to children than its peers and could serve as a leader if it makes reforms.
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