The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has called for an investigation after a Muslim family alleged that a Decatur, Alabama McDonald’s added bacon to their sandwiches intentionally. The family, visiting from New York, reportedly ordered 14 McChicken sandwiches and noticed something unusual about the taste while eating, eventually discovering bacon, which is strictly forbidden in Islam.

Khaula Hadeed, the Alabama CAIR chapter’s head, stated the family was certain of their order, as they regularly eat McChicken sandwiches. Hadeed called the incident “an intentional act of religious and ethnic bigotry,” emphasizing the unlikelihood of such an error occurring in all 14 sandwiches. She also reported that one family member became physically ill after consuming the food.

CAIR has demanded that McDonald’s conduct a thorough investigation, hold responsible employees accountable, and issue a formal apology to the family. Social media users have expressed mixed reactions, with some sympathizing with the family and suggesting the act could be a deliberate attack, while others have called for more evidence before drawing conclusions.

One commenter highlighted the importance of addressing bigotry, stating, “If this was intentional, it’s deeply un-American and unacceptable.”

McDonald’s has yet to release an official statement, but incidents like this underscore the need for cultural sensitivity and accountability in the workplace.