A federal judge has determined that Kraft Heinz must face a proposed nationwide class action lawsuit alleging consumer deception regarding its Kraft Mac & Cheese product, according to Reuters. The lawsuit claims that the product contains artificial preservatives, contrary to the company's labeling.
U.S. District Judge Mary Rowland, based in Chicago, stated that consumers from Illinois, California, and New York have plausibly alleged that Kraft Mac & Cheese includes a synthetic form of citric acid and sodium phosphates, which function as preservatives. The plaintiffs argue that this contradicts the product's label, which states, "No Artificial Flavors, Preservatives or Dyes." The judge noted that the plaintiffs supported their claims with academic studies and U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidance.
Judge Rowland ruled that these allegations were sufficient to proceed with the case, denying Kraft Heinz's motion to dismiss. However, she agreed with the company that the plaintiffs could not demand new labels, as they are now aware of the alleged deceptive practices and thus face no risk of future harm.
Kraft Heinz has maintained that its Mac & Cheese does not contain artificial flavors, preservatives, or dyes. The company expressed confidence in the quality of its product and stated its belief that the lawsuit lacks merit. Kraft Heinz looks forward to defending its position in court.
The plaintiffs seek damages for fraud, unjust enrichment, and violations of state consumer protection laws. This lawsuit is part of a broader trend of legal challenges questioning the accuracy of food labeling. Notably, a similar case involving Kraft Heinz's Velveeta macaroni and cheese was dismissed in July 2023.
The case, Hayes et al v. Kraft Heinz Co., is being heard in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
