Kraft Heinz Faces Lawsuit Over Misleading Food Labels

Kraft Heinz must face a class action lawsuit claiming it falsely advertised its Kraft Macaroni and Cheese as containing no artificial preservatives. U.S. District Judge Mary Rowland ruled that consumers from Illinois, California, and New York have a plausible case, citing the presence of synthetic citric acid and sodium phosphates, which could function as preservatives contrary to Kraft Heinz's labeling. The plaintiffs, citing FDA guidance and academic studies, argue that these ingredients invalidate the 'No Artificial Flavors, Preservatives or Dyes' label. The judge agreed that while the plaintiffs cannot demand new labels since they are now aware of the alleged deception, their claims are sufficient to proceed to court. Kraft Heinz maintains that its product contains no artificial preservatives and believes the lawsuit lacks merit. The plaintiffs seek damages for fraud, unjust enrichment, and violations of consumer protection laws.