A class-action lawsuit has been filed against Subway, accusing the fast-food chain of "unfair and deceptive trade practices" and selling its Steak & Cheese sandwiches based on "false and misleading advertisements." The lawsuit, filed on October 28, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, claims that Subway's advertisements make it appear that the Steak & Cheese sandwich contains at least 200% more meat than the actual sandwiches customers receive.
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Key Claims and Allegations
Misleading Advertisements:
The lawsuit alleges that Subway's advertisements falsely depict the Steak & Cheese sandwich with layers of meat piled high, which is not representative of the actual product customers receive. Instead, the sandwiches are mostly bread with small amounts of meat.
Plaintiff Anna Tollison, who filed the lawsuit, stated that she ordered a Steak & Cheese sandwich through Subway's mobile app for $6.99 plus tax. Upon receiving and eating the sandwich, she realized it contained barely any steak, contrary to the advertisements she had seen.
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Consumer Impact:
The lawsuit emphasizes that Subway's actions are particularly harmful given the current economic climate, where inflation and high food prices are making it difficult for many consumers, especially lower-income individuals, to afford food.
It also claims that Subway's misleading ads cause consumers to visit or order from Subway when they otherwise would not, leading to financial harm.
It seeks unspecified damages for New Yorkers who purchased the Steak & Cheese sandwiches in the last three years, from October 28, 2021, to the present.
The law firm representing Anna Tollison has also filed similar suits against McDonald's, Wendy's, and Taco Bell, though those were dismissed last year.
Subway's Response
As of the latest reports, Subway has not responded to the specific claims made in the lawsuit. However, in previous cases, Subway has defended its products and advertising practices, emphasizing the quality and consistency of their offerings.
Conclusion
The lawsuit against Subway highlights significant concerns about the chain's advertising practices and their impact on consumers. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for how food companies represent their products in advertisements and the legal standards for fair advertising practices.
