Which fast food chain introduced the McRib sandwich?

McDonald's introduced the McRib sandwich.

The McRib debuted in 1981 as a limited-time pork sandwich. It uses a restructured, boneless pork patty molded to resemble a rack of ribs, then adds barbecue sauce, onions, and pickles on a long roll. Its rib-like shape is visual rather than anatomical: the sandwich contains no rib bones.

McDonald's executive chef René Arend developed the product after the popularity of Chicken McNuggets created pressure on the company's chicken supply. The McRib offered franchises another promotional item while using pork instead. It was initially tested around Kansas City before wider releases.

The McRib became known for disappearing and returning, rather than remaining a permanent menu staple in most markets. It was removed after weak early sales, brought back in 1989, and later became a recurring seasonal promotion. Germany and Luxembourg have been notable exceptions, where it has been sold more consistently.