Federal Judge Orders Kraft Heinz to Face Class Action Lawsuit

Lawsuit Overview

On November 13, a federal judge ruled that Kraft Heinz must face a proposed nationwide class action lawsuit alleging the company misled consumers by falsely labeling its macaroni and cheese as containing “no artificial preservatives.”

U.S. District Judge Mary Rowland, presiding in the Northern District of Illinois, denied Kraft Heinz’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit. The case was brought by consumers from Illinois, California, and New York, who claim the company’s labeling is deceptive.

Allegations Against Kraft Heinz 

The plaintiffs—David Hayes, Kamilah Galbreth, and Taylor Ambroisno—argue that Kraft Macaroni and Cheese products contain ingredients like synthetic citric acid, sodium phosphate, and sodium triphosphate. They assert these ingredients act as preservatives, contradicting Kraft Heinz’s claims of “No Artificial Flavors, Preservatives or Dyes.” The plaintiffs supported their case with references to academic studies and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines.

In response, Kraft Heinz stated there is no evidence proving the use of artificial preservatives in their products. The company further contended that the claims of fraud and unjust enrichment could not be certified as a class action because each consumer’s claim would depend on state-specific laws.

Judge’s Decision

Judge Rowland acknowledged Kraft Heinz’s arguments but stated that their concerns about class certification should be addressed in a later motion. She ruled that the plaintiffs’ allegations were sufficient to proceed with the lawsuit.