NEW YORK – McDonald’s Corp. announced Monday that its same-store sales for November jumped by 7.7 percent.

The nation’s largest QSR reportedly said that the rise came from strong sales of breakfast items, chicken sandwiches and value menu options.

Total sales worldwide for the month ending Nov. 30 rose 1.9 percent, according to reports. Same-store sales were also strong overseas, rising 7.8 percent in Europe and 13.2 percent in the Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa division.

Overseas sales gains came from the chain's open early and close late and the breakfast menu.

"Convenient locations, extended hours and quality food at an outstanding value are all reasons why people are choosing McDonald's," Jim Skinner, chief executive officer, told the press.

Source: Associated Press

LONDON – The government of Ireland recalled pork products from across Europe after tests showed the meat had been tainted by dioxin.

The country’s Food Safety Authority reportedly said that the potential carcinogen got into the food chain after pig feed was tainted with industrial oil. A small portion of the country’s pigs were fed the feed, but meat was mixed together during processing.

Irish media reported that Millstream Power Recycling Ltd. in southeast Ireland was suspected of being the source of the contamination. The company reportedly said it was cooperating with authorities but would not comment further, citing legal reasons.

Ireland produces more than 3 million pigs a year, half of which is for domestic consumption. Much of the rest is reportedly exported to Great Britain and makes its way to stores in Europe and Asia. Authorities and stores in Germany, Great Britain and Singapore have already pulled Irish pork products from shelves.

Source: Associated Press

DANVILLE, Ark. – The Petit Jean Poultry processing plan in Danville, Ark. announced Friday that it will shut down on Jan. 31, laying off about 500 employees.

Pam Millard, production coordinator for the plant, reportedly said the company's loss of its main contract with Tyson Foods prompted company officials to close the plant.

There are no plans to reopen the plant, Millard reportedly said. The work performed at the plant is tied directly to Tyson's operations.

"Tyson Foods brings us processed chicken, we debone the chicken and then we return the deboned product back to Tyson," Millard said.

Source: Associated Press