Kraft Heinz is set to face a proposed nationwide class action lawsuit after a federal judge ruled that the company must answer allegations of misleading consumers regarding its popular Kraft Macaroni & Cheese product. The lawsuit claims that Kraft falsely advertised its mac and cheese as containing “no artificial flavors, preservatives, or dyes,” despite evidence suggesting the presence of synthetic ingredients.
In a decision issued on Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Mary Rowland stated that consumers from Illinois, California, and New York have presented sufficient grounds to support their claims. They allege that Kraft Mac & Cheese includes a synthetic form of citric acid—used as a preservative—along with sodium phosphates, which contradicts the company’s labeling claims. The plaintiffs backed their assertions with academic studies and guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), arguing that these ingredients function as preservatives.
Judge Rowland noted, “These allegations are enough to withstand a motion to dismiss,” allowing the case to proceed. However, she acknowledged Kraft Heinz’s argument that the plaintiffs may lack standing to demand new labels since they are now aware of the alleged deceptive practices and do not face immediate harm.
Kraft Heinz maintains that its product is free from artificial preservatives and stands by its marketing claims. The company issued a statement asserting, “We are proud of our product’s quality and believe this lawsuit lacks merit. We look forward to our day in court.”
The plaintiffs are seeking damages for fraud, unjust enrichment, and violations of state consumer protection laws, joining a growing trend of lawsuits challenging food labeling accuracy. This case follows a similar lawsuit dismissed in July 2023, which accused Kraft Heinz of understating preparation times for its microwaveable Velveeta mac and cheese.
As this legal battle unfolds, it highlights ongoing concerns regarding transparency in food labeling and consumer protection in the food industry.
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