Two Texas residents have filed a $1.5 million lawsuit against Popeyes and its parent company, Restaurant Brands International, alleging that a "condom-like" object was discovered in a piece of fried chicken. The lawsuit, filed on August 3 in Harris County District Court, asserts seven counts of negligence and violations of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act (DTPA).
The plaintiffs, Justin Howard and Danielle McKinnon, claim that on or around July 25, they purchased chicken from a Popeyes location in Houston. According to their petition, Howard bit into a piece of chicken and found what they described as a "condom-like foreign object embedded within the chicken itself."
The discovery reportedly transformed what should have been a family meal into a "deeply disturbing and frightening event." Howard experienced nausea after realizing he may have ingested parts of the contaminated food before discovering the object. The plaintiffs allege that after returning to the restaurant, management initially resisted but eventually issued a refund after persistence.
The lawsuit contends that the plaintiffs were exposed to potential infectious contaminants, bacteria, viruses, bloodborne pathogens, bodily fluids, sexually transmitted diseases, or other hazardous substances. They are seeking $1.5 million in damages for the "real, physical, mental, and emotional pain and damages" they claim to have suffered.
In response to the allegations, Popeyes stated, "We looked at extensive internal video and determined this was likely a restaurant glove that fell into the batter." The company added, "Regardless, it’s not acceptable, so we issued a refund and an apology to the guest. This does not reflect the excellent experience that we strive to deliver at Popeyes."