Judge Orders McDonald's to Pay Employee $17,500 For Making Him Fat

A former manager of a McDonald's franchise in Porto Allegre, Brazil, was awarded $17,500 as recompense for gaining 65 lbs. over 12 years on the job, the AP reports.

The 32-year-old man said he felt forced to sample the food each day to ensure quality standards remained high, because McDonald's hired "mystery clients" to randomly visit restaurants and report on the food, service and cleanliness. The man also said the company offered free lunches to employees, adding to his caloric intake while on the job. His identity was not released. The ruling was signed Tuesday by Judge Joao Ghisleni Filho in Porto Alegre. Ghisleni said McDonald's could appeal the case, and the Brazilian headquarters of the chain said in an e-mailed statement Thursday it was weighing its legal options.

The company said it offers "a large variety of options and balanced menus" so it's not their fault a fat ass makes unhealthy choices. The judge said although the man's obesity could have resulted from physical inactivity and genetic factors, McDonald's should still be held responsible.



source