Federal Judge Rules in Favor of Consumers in Kraft Mac & Cheese Lawsuit
Background
A federal judge has ruled that Kraft Heinz must face a proposed nationwide class-action lawsuit regarding claims that the company lied about whether Kraft Mac & Cheese contained artificial preservatives.
Judge’s Ruling
U.S. District Judge Mary Rowland made the decision on Wednesday, finding that the Illinois, California, and New York consumers leading the lawsuit plausibly alleged that Kraft Mac & Cheese contained a synthetic form of citric acid that differed from the natural variety, and also contained sodium phosphates.
Labeling Controversy
The macaroni and cheese products are labeled, marketed, and sold with a label reading "No Artificial Flavors, Preservatives, or Dyes." However, according to court documents, the products actually contain citric acid, sodium phosphate, and/or sodium triphosphate.
Judge’s Conclusion
The judge ruled that the plaintiffs "adequately alleged the ingredients are artificial" – despite Kraft Heinz’s claim that citric acid is a natural ingredient – even if some of it is artificially manufactured.
Kraft Heinz’s Response
Kraft Heinz released a statement regarding the judge’s ruling, stating, "Generations of families have enjoyed KRAFT Macaroni & Cheese, which contains no artificial flavors, preservatives, or dyes. We stand fully behind our product and are proud of its quality. We strongly believe that this lawsuit has no merit and look forward to our day in court."
Conclusion
The judge’s ruling is a significant victory for the consumers who have brought the lawsuit, as it allows them to move forward with their claims against Kraft Heinz. The case will now proceed to trial, where the plaintiffs will have the opportunity to present their evidence and arguments to the court.
FAQs
Q: What is the lawsuit about?
A: The lawsuit claims that Kraft Heinz lied about whether Kraft Mac & Cheese contains artificial preservatives.
Q: What is the judge’s ruling?
A: The judge has ruled that the plaintiffs plausibly alleged that Kraft Mac & Cheese contains synthetic citric acid and sodium phosphates, despite the product’s labeling.
Q: What is Kraft Heinz’s response?
A: Kraft Heinz claims that their product is of high quality and that the lawsuit has no merit, and they look forward to their day in court.
Q: What’s next?
A: The case will now proceed to trial, where the plaintiffs will present their evidence and arguments to the court.
