ITN Early Evening News, June 19, 1997
McDonald’s global criticism over nutrition, wages, and marketing was brought to the forefront of public attention during the McLibel case. By suing two activists over leaflets, the company unintentionally damaged its own image. The trial painted McDonald’s as a corporate giant that bullied critics rather than confront public concerns. Instead of relying on legal threats, McDonald’s gradually pivoted to reform, adding plant-based options, increasing nutritional transparency, improving sourcing, and expanding wage and tuition programs.
The Cover of the Leaflet at the Center of the McLibel Case, London Greenpeace, 1986,
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Despite efforts, McDonald’s continued to face criticism for causing obesity and manipulative marketing. Public pressure, amplified by the documentary “Super Size Me”, led the company to eliminate supersized portions while reducing trans fats and preservatives.
"The film [Super Size Me] joined a larger discussion about where our food actually comes from and how it's actually made Christy Harrison, MPH, RD. [explains] "... it helped push some food producers to start using more sustainable practices in growing our food... The most obvious effects of the film are the size changes to fast food menus. For example, in addition to adding more salads and fruit on fast food menus, McDonald's has eliminated its "supersize" meal option..."
~ Meghan De Maria, Food and Lifestyle Journalist, from How Super Size Me Really Changed Our Diets, 2017
Item Stand at a McDonald's in Canada, Niki Rabo, January 5, 2026,
