April 2018
Need To Get To Root Of “Real Ginger” Claims
Webb v. Dr Pepper
Motion to dismiss denied – Dr. Pepper allegedly marketed its Canada Dry Ginger Ale products as “Made From Real Ginger,” despite the fact they contained no detectable ginger root, and instead used chemical flavor compounds that mimicked the taste of ginger. Plaintiffs claimed they paid a premium for Canada Dry Ginger Ale products under the mistaken belief they contained real ginger. Had plaintiffs known the true nature of the product, they claimed they would not have purchased them or, at a minimum, paid less. Plaintiffs claimed they would buy Canada Dry Ginger Ale products in the future if they could rely on the ‘Real Ginger’ representations.
The court found plaintiffs adequately pled (for the motion to dismiss phase):
- Claims upon which relief could be granted
- Lab testing plausibly showed no detectable amount of ginger in the product in question
- Lack of ginger plausibly showed the product (i) was not fit for ordinary purposes, (ii) not adequately labeled, or (iii) did not conform to the promises on the label (breach of express and implied warranty)
- Lack of ginger plausibly showed Dr. Pepper was (i) enriched, (ii) at the expense of plaintiff, and (iii) unjustly retained the benefit (unjust enrichment)
- The Who, What, Where, When, and How of the alleged fraud
- Who – defendants and the independent laboratory that tested the product
- What – the “Made from Real Ginger” misrepresentation on the product label and in TV ads
- Where – vending machine in Independence, Missouri, and a grocery store in Blue Springs, Missouri (where plaintiff purchased the product) and on TV (commercials)
- When – dates of purchase, dates TV spots aired
- How – mislead by product that despite representations, did not contain a lab-detectable amount of ginger
- Standing (injunctive relief)
- Plaintiff would buy the product in the future if it contained ginger
[W.D. MO; 4:17-cv-00624]
jbho: another one to watch. The court also references Fitzhenry-Russell v. Dr. Pepper (N.D. CA; 5:17-cv-00564) where the court found plaintiffs need not state the exact time, date, and broadcast channel of the (allegedly misleading) ads, since that info was available to defendant (who bought the ad time).
A reminder to be careful in labeling products as “made with” or “made from” when a claimed ingredient has been subject to a fair degree of processing.
Update: 25Apr2018 – motion to dismiss denied (Doc#68). “(B)ecause Plaintiff stated he would buy the Product in the future if the Product contained ginger, the Court finds Plaintiff has pled sufficient facts to state a claim that is plausible on its face and survives a motion to dismiss for lack of Article III standing individually and as a putative class.”
Update: 20Jun2018 – voluntary dismissal (Doc#78). Plaintiff voluntarily dismissed the case without explanation.
January 2017
Eating Meat Doesn’t Harm Vegetarian
Borenkoff v. Buffalo Wild Wings
Dismissed – Buffalo Wild Wings allegedly duped vegetarians into eating beef tallow by not disclosing that it fried non-meat items such as roasted garlic breaded mushrooms, cheese curds, potato wedges, and french fries with the beef tallow. Plaintiff claimed she paid a premium for what she believed to be vegetarian items, and would not have purchased had she known they were fried in beef tallow.
The court found that although plaintiff had standing, she failed to adequately plead an injury since she failed to allege:
• she was harmed by the food items
• the food items were defective in any way
• the price of the food items were inflated as a result of using beef tallow
Thus, “(plaintiff’s) invocation of the word ‘premium’ is nothing more than a legal conclusion couched as a factual allegation,” insufficient to state a claim for relief that was plausible on its face.
[S.D. N.Y.; 1:16-cv-08532]
jbho: I’m always a bit perplexed by these cases where plaintiffs claim they were duped into believing food was healthy, when they were consuming comfort foods to start with. Here, plaintiff did not allege she ordered from a vegetarian menu, or there were any explicit representations on the menu the food items were ‘vegetarian.’ She only argued that since using lard was less common, Buffalo Wild Wings was under an obligation to disclose it. The court disagreed.
Can’t help but think of the Jim Gaffigan bit about Vegetarians.
“For people who don’t like meat, they seem to eat a lot of vegetables that are mashed up and shaped to look like meat … ‘I find meat repulsive. I’ll have a veggie burger with fake bacon, and can you serve it to me dressed like a cow? … You never see that the other way: ‘I will have the steak and can you make it taste like tofu?'”
If you’re looking for vegetarian fare, maybe you should avoid places that have animals and meats in their names?
Organic Claims Must Be Federally Enforced
Organic Consumers Association v. Hain Celestial Group
Dismissed with prejudice – Hain allegedly labelled its infant formulas as organic despite the fact they contained Adenosine-5′-monophosphate (AMP), cytidine-5′-monophosphate (CMP), disodium inosine-5′-monophosphate (GMP), disodium uridine-5′-monophosphate, sodium selenite, taurine, docosahexaenoic acid single cell oil (DHASCO), arachidonic acid single cell oil (ARASCO), L-carnitine, Dl-alpa tocopheryl acetate, ascorbyl palmitate, calcium pantothenate, choline bitartrate, choline chloride, cholecalciferol, cupric sulfate, phytonadione, pyridoxine hydrochloride, thiamin hydrochloride, retinyl palmilate, Manganese sulfate, zinc sulfate, potassium bicarbonate, inositol, synthetic beta-carotene, magnesium phosphate, potassium phosphate, and lutien – all synthetic ingredients that are not permitted under the federal Organic Food Production Act of 1990 (OFPA). Plaintiffs claimed they paid a premium for what they believed to be organic products, and would not have purchased the products had they known the true ingredients. Claims were filed under the D.C. Consumer Protection Procedures Act (CPPA).
On motion to dismiss, the court found that although plaintiffs has sufficiently alleged injury-in-fact, the OFPA preempted any state law claims. The OFPA sought to establish a national standard, and permitting plaintiff’s claims to proceed would present an obstacle to the federal certification scheme itself since:
• Hain would be unable to market the challenged products in DC, while the status quo would remain unchanged in the rest of the nation
• Consistency would be lost, as consumers would wonder why products not considered organic in DC were labeled as organic elsewhere
• The intended goal of the OFPA – to facilitate interstate commerce in food that is organically produced – would be obstructed
Additionally, the court ruled, the OFPA contemplated a regulatory process that included notification (to allow the certified program to resolve the noncompliance), suspension or revocation of organic certification, civil penalties for violations committed knowingly, and even criminal liability for false statements. Thus private enforcement via state law was inconsistent with congressional intent, and state law claims were preempted.
[D. D.C.; 1:16-cv-00925]
jbho: it appears the fact the OFPA included enforcement specifications led the court to favor preemption. Per the court: “Any allegation that the product is not truthfully labeled as such is a challenge to the certifying agent’s decision, not the manufacturer’s representation.” Will other circuits embrace this logic?
December 2017
La Moutarde Monte Au Nez de Plaintiff
Quiroz v. Beaverton Foods
Class complaint – Beaverton allegedly marketed its Inglehoffer Original Stone Ground Mustard Sauce as containing no preservatives, despite the fact it contained the chemical preservative citric acid. Plaintiff claimed the misrepresentation was willful, since the ‘no preservative’ claims did not appear on smaller products.
Plaintiff claimed he paid a premium for what he believed to be natural products, and would not have purchased the products had he known the true ingredients.
[E.D. N.Y.; 1:17-cv-07348]
jbho: a reminder to be careful using absolutes in advertising, particularly with “free of” type claims.
Note also that FDA guidance cited in the complaint specifically lists citric acid as an example of a preservative. Additionally, the complaint references a warning letter where the FDA clarified it considers ascorbic acid and citric acid as chemical preservatives.
New York Class Alleges Synthetics In “Natural” Baby Products
Suarez v. Ralph, Paco, & Roberto
Class Complaint – Defendants allegedly marketed their California Baby products as “Natural” or containing “Natural Cleansers,” despite the fact they contained synthetic ingredients such as Lauryl Glucoside, Panthenol, Decyl Glucoside, Tocopherol, Glyceryl Stearate (Stearic Acid), Xanthan Gum , Titanium Dioxide, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, and Glycerin.
Plaintiff claimed he paid a premium for what he believed to be natural products, and would not have purchased the products had he known the true ingredients.
[S.D. N.Y.; 7:17-cv-09847]
jbho: another reminder to be careful when using the term ‘Natural.’
The complaint also asks for injunctive relief, but I think that will fail since plaintiff did not allege he would again buy the products if properly labelled.
California Class Alleges Synthetics In “Natural” Baby Products
Haris v. Kimberly-Clark
Class complaint – Kimberly-Clark allegedly marketed its Huggies Baby Wipes as ‘natural’, ‘gentle’, and ‘hypoallergenic’, despite the fact they contained synthetic and harsh chemical ingredients such as phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, cocamidopropyl betaine, and sodium citrate.
Plaintiff claimed she paid a premium for what she believed to be natural products, and would not have purchased the products had she known the true ingredients. However, she would purchase again in the future if the products conformed to their natural labeling and marketing.
[N.D. CA; 4:17-cv-07016]
jbho: yet another class taking advantage of ambiguous ‘natural’ claims.
$1.25 Million To Settle All Natural Class Action
DiFrancesco v. UTZ
$1.25M (amended) settlement – Utz allegedly marketed its potato chip, corn chip, pretzel, & salsa products as “all natural” despite the fact they contained genetically-modified ingredients – including cottonseed oil, corn oil, yellow corn, white corn, vinegar, maltodextrin, modified food starch, modified corn starch, corn syrup, and soy lecithin. Plaintiff further claimed the cottonseed oil, corn oil, canola oil, soybean oil, and vinegar used were created through heavy industrialized processing, and thus constituted man-made, rather than natural ingredients. Finally, plaintiff claimed the products contained the unnatural, synthetic, and artificial ingredients maltodextrin, soy lecithin, modified food starch, dextrose, malic acid, potassium chloride, and citric acid.
Highlights include:
• $1,250,000.00 settlement fund
• up to $20 per class member ($2 per purchase for up to 10 purchases)
• $5,000 for each class representative (3)
• Class Counsel Award TBD
[D. Mass; 1:14-cv-14744]
jbho: a reminder to be careful when using “natural” claims. Though still largely undefined, continues to be tested by plaintiff’s bar.
Class Claims Salmon Neither Smoked Nor Wild
Rodriguez v. Bumble Bee Foods
Class complaint – Bumble Bee allegedly marketed it’s canned salmon as premium, wild caught, and smoked. Plaintiff claimed that the salmon was actually farm raised, under conditions that belied the “premium” claims (e.g., overcrowding, high levels of antibiotics, etc.). Plaintiff further alleged Bumble Bee used coloring additives to make the flesh appear pink (wild caught), masking the grey color common in farm raised salmon. Finally, plaintiff alleged the salmon was not smoked, but artificial liquid smoke was added as a flavoring. Plaintiff claimed this artificial flavor was not identified on the packaging, and only (deceptively) in the ingredients list.
Plaintiff claimed he lost money by overpaying for what he believed was wild, smoked salmon, but would buy the product again if he could rely on the veracity of Bumble Bee’s wild and smoked claims.
UPDATE: 1Feb2018 – motion for settlement (Doc#13). Bumble Bee agreed to change its product packaging, pay $30,000 – $85,000 in attorneys’ fees and an incentive award, and not require the proposed class to release any claims for damages or personal injury.
[S.D. CA; 3:17-cv-02447]
jbho: a reminder to verify any claims, and that the claims accurately reflect the souring of a given product.
Also of interest, the complaint includes comparisons against other Bumble Bee products that indicated they were farm raised – claims missing from the salmon packaging in the complaint. Both “premium” smoked oysters, and “premium” smoked trout labels indicated they were farm raised. Could this be a typo or honest mistake? Stay tuned.
November 2017
Class Alleges ‘Natural’ Flavors Really Derived From Petrochemicals
Hilsley v. Ocean Spray
Class complaint – Ocean Spray allegedly markets its juice drinks as containing “No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Artificial Colors or Flavors” despite the fact they include artificial flavoring chemicals that simulate the advertised fruit flavors. Plaintiffs claimed Ocean Spray apple drinks contain a synthetic manufactured flavoring chemical called dl-malic acid (derived from petrochemicals), and misidentifies the chemical as “malic-acid” on nutrition labels to mislead consumers into believing the products contain the naturally occurring l-malic acid. Plaintiffs also claimed Ocean Spray grape drinks contain a synthetic fumaric acid. Plaintiff claimed she paid a premium for what she believed to be natural juices, and she would not have purchased the product had she know of the artificial flavorings. Plaintiff stated she would buy the juices again if they were solely naturally-flavored.
[S.D. CA; 3:17-cv-02335]
jbho: I’ve read enough of these cases that I’m starting to see the patterns, and how plaintiffs plead their theories of liability. Economic harms derive from paying a premium for a perceived benefit (e.g., ‘natural,’ ‘healthy,’ ‘free of,’ etc.). Physical harms resulting from ingestion or application of ‘unsafe’ or ‘harsh’ ingredients, are sometimes pled as well (see McMorrow v. Mondelez below). And to pursue injunctive relief, plaintiff has to say they would buy a properly labelled product. Bit of a dichotomy in that one, as why would you buy a product known to contain undesirable ingredients?
Let me know what you think.
Class Claims Dangerous Excess Sugar In ‘Healthy’ Products
McMorrow v. Mondelez
Mondelez allegedly markets its belVita Breakfast products as healthy, despite the fact they allegedly contain high levels of added sugar. Plaintiffs claimed they paid a premium for what they believed to be healthy products, would not have purchased the products had they known the actual sugar content, and would buy again if they could be assured health and wellness claims on belVita products were not misleading.
[S.D. CA; 3:17-cv-02327]
jbho: the new FDA labeling requirements seem to be tied into these types of cases. Now that added sugars must be disclosed, will this lead to an uptick in suits alleging harms from the previously undisclosed levels of added sugar? Or will it help with dismissals based on the clear an conspicuous disclosure of added sugars now required by law.
If you are interested, changes to the nutrition facts label can be found here:
https://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/LabelingNutrition/ucm385663.htm
Also of note, the complaint dedicates nearly 40 pages to the evils of sugar, and how it causes diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, obesity, and a host of other bad things. It also cites sugar amounts and how much the products contribute to the recommended daily percentages American Heart Association’s Maximum Recommended Daily Intake of Added Sugars. Only a few exceed 100%, but only as a high end possibility for children. It will be interesting to see if these alleged physical harms help build plaintiff’s case.
Does Made With Butter Mean No Margarine?
Berger v. MFI Holding
Class complaint – MFI marketed it Simply Potatoes products as “Made With Real Butter & Milk,” despite the fact the product also contiained margarine.
Plaintiff claimed no reasonable consumer would expect a product which touts the presence of ‘Real Butter’ would also contain margarine, and he paid a premium for a product he believed did not contain margarine.
[E.D. N.Y.; 2:17-cv-06728]
jbho: looks like this one will come down to whether the clear disclosure of margarine in the ingredients was sufficient to clarify made with butter and other stuff. The ‘made with’ claim was not an absolute (e.g., 100%) claim, and butter is listed before margarine.
October 2017
$4 Million To Settle ‘Natural’ Claims
Barnes v. River North Foods
$3.95M settlement – River North Foods allegedly marketed its Mexican/Southwestern dishes as “All Natural” despite the fact they contained synthetic ingredients such as Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Disodium Phosphate, and Sodium Citrate. Additionally, River North Foods allegedly deceptively labelled sugar in its products as Evaporated Cane Juice.
Highlights include:
• $3,950,000 settlement fund
• up to $5.00 for each class member without proof of purchase (50¢ per unit, max 10 units)
• up to $10.00 for each class member with proof of purchase (50¢ per unit, max 20 units)
• $2,000 for class representative
• $450,000 for settlement administration
• $987,500 for class counsel (25% of settlement fund)
[St. Clair Co. Circ. Ct.; 16-L-459]
jbho: a reminder to be careful in how you label products with stabilizers, preservatives, desiccants, etc., and to avoid unqualified or absolute claims about ingredients.
Naturally Genetically Modified
Lee v. Conagra
Dismissed – Conagra allegedly marketed its Wesson Oils as “100% Natural” despite the fact the oils were produced from plants that underwent unnatural DNA alterations – commonly referred to as genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Plaintiff argued that GMOs were not natural at all, let alone “100% Natural.” Plaintiff claimed she overpaid based on the “100% Natural” misrepresentations, and would not have purchased Wesson Oil had she known it contained GMOs.
The court found Wesson’s “100% natural” label was consistent with FDA requirements. The FDA’s longstanding policy for use of the term “natural” meant nothing artificial or synthetic – colors, synthetic substances, or flavors – had been added. Moreover, plaintiff failed to alleged Wesson Oil contained anything that would not expected to be in a vegetable oil.
Additionally, the FDA has not determined that GMOs differ from other foods in any meaningful or uniform way. Since FDA guidance indicates labeling of bio-engineered foods as such is voluntary, Conagra was under no obligation to disclose its use of GMOs.
Therefore, Wesson’s “100% natural” label conformed to FDA labeling policy, and was not unfair or deceptive as a matter of law.
[D. Mass; 1:17-cv-11042]
jbho: another interesting result around the unregulated “natural” moniker. Per the court, “Because Wesson’s “100% natural” label conforms to FDA labeling policy, it cannot be unfair or deceptive as a matter of law” (emphasis added). I believe the Supreme Court felt differently, finding that beverage labels conforming to FDA labeling regulations could still be false or misleading under the Lanham Act (POM Wonderful v. Coca-Cola – SCOTUS; 12–761). Perhaps an appeal is forthcoming.
The court also opined, “(f)or what it is worth, humans have been genetically altering organisms for our use for at least 30,000 years.” Something else that may be picked apart on appeal?
And for the record, here is a link to the FDA’s guidance on GMO labelling:
https://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/LabelingNutrition/ucm059098.htm
What Are ‘Net Carbs’?
Colella v. Atkins Nutritionals
Class complaint – Atkins allegedly markets its products as healthy by using a ‘net carbs’ designation to mislead consumers as to actual sugar levels in its products. Specifically, plaintiffs allege the ‘net carbs’ designation excluded carbohydrates from sugar alcohols. For example, one product that contained 19 grams of carbohydrates was marketed as having 1 gram of ‘net carbs.’
Plaintiff claimed this calculation was contrary to the method originally espoused by Dr. Atkins (only fibers should be deducted). Moreover, plaintiff alleged the misleading calculation was harmful, since sugar alcohols have a significant impact on blood sugar levels (the kinds of carbohydrates Dr. Atkins recommended avoiding).
Plaintiff claimed he was overcharged, would not have purchased products had he understood the true nature of the products, and requests Atkins cease labeling products with a ‘net carb’ calculation that assigns a value of zero to sugar alcohols.
[E.D. N.Y.; 1:17-cv-05867]
jbho: The complaint cites an FDA warning against a bakery that mislabeled products according to its own definition of ‘net carbs.’ That warning closed with the comment, “the FDA has not defined the term “net carbs” and we have concerns that this term may be misleading to consumers.” The bakery fixed its labeling, and the FDA closed the matter. So it is unclear whether the ‘net carb’ claim in-and-of-itself is deceptive. So long as a definition is provided on the package, the claims are okay?
$2 Million To Settle ‘All Natural’ Claims
In re Frito-Lay All Natural Litigation
Motion for final settlement – Frito-Lay allegedly marketed certain snack chip products as ‘All Natural,’ despite the fact they were made from ingredients that included genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Highlights include:
• Injunction-Only Settlement ($0 for each class member)
• $17,500 for class representatives (requested: $5,000 for 3 reps who sat for depositions, $2,500 for 1 rep whose deposition was cancelled)
• $215,000 to notify class*
• $2,100,000 for class counsel (requested)
In addition to the monetary settlement, Frito-Lay has removed the ‘Made with All Natural Ingredients’ claims from products, and agreed not to label products that include GMO ingredients as ‘natural’ for the next five years, unless such GMO ingredients are approved for use in products identified as ‘natural’ by a federal agency or controlling regulatory body.
[E.D N.Y.; 1:12-md-02413]
jbho: a reminder of the challenges faced when using the largely unregulated ‘natural’ term.
*The notice plan is expected to reach 70% of the 70 million class members, and will provide information about the settlement (Fairness Hearing, elements of the Settlement, and certification of the Class). Information in the Notice Plan includes: (a) comprehensive web-based notice using paid banner ads on targeted websites; (b) additional web-based notice using “keyword” searches displaying banner ads; (c) social media ads targeting relevant interest areas; (d) publication of the Summary Notice in People magazine and USA Today; (e) a dedicated, informational website through which Class Members can obtain more detailed information about the Settlement and access case documents, including the Long Form Notice; and (f) a toll-free telephone helpline by which Class Members can obtain additional information about the Settlement and request the Long Form Notice.
Affirmed – No Injury From ‘All Non-GMO’ Claims
Reilly v. Chipotle
Affirmed – Chipotle allegedly marketed its products as containing non-GMO ingredients only, despite the fact its meat and dairy products came from animals who were raised on GMO feed. Plaintiff alleged she paid premium prices based on Chipotle’s representations its foods were GMO free.
Claims survived a motion to dismiss, but afterward the district court granted summary judgement to Chipotle, finding plaintiff failed to present evidence she had been deceived (she had been eating at Chipotle long before she noticed the non-GMO claims), and plaintiff failed to show injury since the market value of burritos did not change when the non-GMO claims were introduced.
The appellate court affirmed, finding plaintiff failed to establish a difference in market value of the products she purchased, and admitted to paying similar prices for similar items at comparable restaurants. With no proof of damages, claims must fail.
[11th Circ.; 16-17461 (Orig: S.D. FL; 1:15-cv-23425)]
jbho: interesting that the court did not address the once-removed GMO-feed consumption argument, and whether the non-GMO claims were misleading (Chipotle produced an expert who testified an animal eating GMO feeds did not make the animal a GMO). The court simply stuck to the fact that plaintiff failed to prove she was harmed by being misled.
Nonetheless, it can be risky to include absolutes like ‘all’ in advertising copy.
Shampoo Class Action Survives Rinse Cycle
Price v. L’Oreal
Motion to dismiss denied in part – L’Oreal allegedly marketed ‘Keratindose Pro Keratin +Silk’ products as keratin treatments that could repair damaged hair, despite the fact they contained no keratin and could not confer the claimed benefits of keratin to the consumer. To the contrary, plaintiffs claimed the products seemed to be damaging their hair, causing hair to become brittle and dry. Had plaintiffs known, they claimed they would not have purchased the products, or at a minimum would have paid less for the products.
The court found plaintiffs sufficiently alleged their fraud claims since they plausibly alleged:
• who – L’Oreal
• what – package instructions (and website representations) that ‘Pro Keratin’ conferred benefits associated with keratin
• where – purchased at Wal-Mart in Cortland, New York & J.C. Penney, SmartStyle Salon, and Ulta retail stores in Sacramento, California
• when – purchased in New York in late 2014 & throughout 2016 in California
• why – statements misrepresenting the presence of keratin in ‘Keratindose Pro Keratin +Silk’ products
The court felt it was irrelevant that the term ‘keratin’ was never used in isolation, as the inclusion of the word ‘keratin’ in the product names/descriptions plausibly misrepresented that the products contained keratin.
Since plaintiffs purchased products believing they contained keratin, actual reliance to support UCL and FAL claims was sufficiently alleged. That the alleged misrepresentations lead to personal injury (hair loss), was sufficient to sustain breach of express warranty and breach of contract claims. However, unjust enrichment claims were dismissed as duplicative.
The court also dismissed demands for injunctive relief. Additionally, since plaintiffs did not establish they would buy ‘Pro Keratin’ in the future, there was no ‘real or immediate threat’ of injury to confer standing for injunctive relief.
[S.D. N.Y.; 1:17-cv-00614]
jbho: if you’re going to include an identifiable element or compound in your product name, that substance should probably be in the product.
At first glance, I thought there may be a puffery defense, since I wouldn’t think a topically applied protein would have any effect. After all, if I were to rub a piece of steak on my arm, I wouldn’t expect to get a bigger bicep. However, it appears that there is some evidence topically applied keratin can show beneficial effects (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18412569), so that may make it more difficult to argue puffery?
Probably most damning is the court’s observation that: “It is unclear what ‘pro-keratin’ is and, given the inclusion of the word ‘keratin’ and the characterization of the shampoo, for example, as ‘our keratin shampoo,’ defendants plausibly misrepresented that the products contain keratin.” Oof.
Hybrid Name Puffery; Not Misleading When Ingredients Fully Disclosed
Isaac v. Ashley Furniture
Dismissed – Ashley allegedly marketed its ‘DuraBlend’ upholstery as both durable, and of similar quality, strength, and durability to leather. Plaintiff claimed he relied on those representations when purchasing a sofa, a sofa that began “flaking and disintegrating” after three years. Plaintiff claimed he paid a premium for the furniture over the price of other similar products and had he known that DuraBlend upholstery would not hold up to normal wear and tear, he would not have purchased it or would only have been willing to pay a significantly lower purchase price.
The court found that the term ‘DuraBlend’ was mere puffery that made no explicit promise to consumers. The label plaintiff included in the complaint made it clear that ‘DuraBlend’ was a composite material that contained only 17% leather.
Since, upon reading the label no reasonable consumer could be misled, plaintiff failed to state a claim that the use of the name ‘DuraBlend’ was deceptive.
[D. Mass.; 1:17-cv-11827]
jbho: demonstrates the importance of clear and conspicuous disclosures.
Inflated Thread Counts Inconsistent With Industry Standards
Adam v. TJX
Class complaint – TJX allegedly misrepresented the thread count of its bedding and linen products. Plaintiffs claimed TJX doubled or tripled the true thread count by counting plied yarns individually, in violation of industry standards*.
Plaintiffs alleged TJX concealed the defective nature of its products, consumers could not have known products did not have the advertised qualities as the defects were not apparent from a superficial inspection the products, and could not be discovered through the exercise of due diligence. “The inflated thread counts put forth by Defendants in their products induced Plaintiffs and other members of the Class to purchase their products when Plaintiffs and other members of the Class would not have purchased them, or would only have paid a lower price for the product if they had known the actual thread counts at the time of purchase.”
Plaintiffs seek to represent classes in all fifty states and the District of Columbia.
[D. Mass; 1:17-cv-11260]
jbho: this is my first foray into textile labelling/advertising requirements. A fascinating space. Please chime in with your thoughts.
Per the complaint:
*ASTM method D 3775-96 (Standard Test Method for Fabric Count of Woven Fabric) is the long-accepted industry standard for determining count. Section 9.1.1 of D3775-12 instructs on the appropriate method for determining thread count: “Count individual warp ends and filling picks as single units regardless of whether they are comprised of single or plied components” (emphasis added).
August 2017
Publicity Rights Don’t Apply To Non-Celebrities?
Vinci v. Spokeo
Dismissed (without prejudice) – Data Brokers BeenVerified, Instant Checkmate, Intelius, and Spokeo allegedly used plaintiffs’ names in paid search advertising (e.g., Google, Bing, etc.) without plaintiffs’ knowledge or consent. Defendants allegedly used dynamic keyword insertion to allow an individual’s name to be included in paid search ads. If the ad was clicked, a user would be taken to a Data Broker page where information about that individual (or individuals with a similar name) could be purchased. Plaintiffs claimed they were not customers of defendants, and never provided permission to use their likenesses in defendants’ advertising. Claims were filed under the Illinois Right of Publicity Act (IRPA).
The court found that use of plaintiff’s names were insufficient to identify them as individuals, since neither alleged they had “celebrity or public status” that allowed them to be identified by name only. However, the court declined to rule the dynamically configured (but otherwise generic) ads were exempt under the IRPA, finding (i) using a person’s identity to draw attention to a product could alone be an infringement, and (ii) the IRPA’s definition of ‘commercial purpose’ was broad enough to include infringements absent allegations of an endorsement or false endorsement.
The ruling applies to four putative class actions in the Northern District of Illinois:
[Dobrowolski v. Intelius – 1:17-cv-01406]
[Dobrowolski v. Instant Checkmate – 1:17-cv-01446]
[Vinci v. BeenVerified – 1:17-cv-01447]
[Vinci v. Spokeo – 1:17-cv-01519]
jbho: a novel case. Similar to BIPA, the IRPA (765 ILCS 1075) allows for $1,000 in statutory damages per violation. Not sure if plaintiffs will be able to cure deficiencies in their identity arguments, but the courts did seem to leave the door open. However, the court did state that whether a name (either alone or in combination with other factors) was sufficient to identify an individual, was a fact-based inquiry. So that could be used to defeat any attempt to certify a class.
Also of interest, the court ruled it had no jurisdiction over Intelius – a Delaware corporation – since plaintiff failed to sufficiently allege that the activity was Illinois-related. Plaintiff only alleged that ads could be configured to target Illinois, but failed to produce evidence of such targeting. The fact the nationwide service was available in Illinois, on its own, was insufficient to establish personal jurisdiction in Illinois. It would seem that simple discovery would be sufficient to show whether defendants’ campaigns were configured to be geo-targeted. But, it looks like plaintiffs will have to do that elsewhere.
No Blueberries In Blueberry Donuts
Grabowski v. Dunkin
Class complaint – Dunkin’ Donuts allegedly sold products as ‘Blueberry’ despite the fact they contained no actual blueberries, and only inferior ingredients such as sugar and com syrup, along with gums and artificial food coloring used to mimic the texture, shape, and color of actual blueberries
Plaintiff claimed he paid a premium for ‘Blueberry’ products, since blueberries are one of the richest sources of antioxidant phytonutrients, and have the potential to limit the development and severity of certain cancers and vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, ischemic stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases of aging. Plaintiff also claimed he would buy the ‘Blueberry’ products in the future, if they were reformulated to contain actual blueberries.
UPDATE: 7Dec2017 – motion to dismiss denied (Doc#31). The court found that plaintiff sufficiently alleged he was deceived into believing his Donuts had real blueberries in them. Plaintiff wanted a product with blueberries in it, and the court reasoned his motives were not relevant, be they health, taste, or other. The court noted that the donuts were identified as blueberry – not blueberry flavored – and they were situated amongst products that contained actual blueberries (e.g., muffins). Clarifying information available on the Dunkin website was not relevant, since there was no indication website information was affirmatively provided to consumers at the time of purchase. However, since plaintiff was now on notice that the donuts did not contain blueberries, there was no threat of future harm, and claims for injunctive relief were dismissed.
[N.D. Ill; 1:17-cv-05069]
jbho: these ones always puzzle me. I don’t think people go to Dunkin’ Donuts looking for health food.
Note that this mirrors a similar case in California (Saidian v. Krispy Kreme C.D. CA; 2:16-cv-08338) where plaintiff alleged Chocolate Iced Raspberry Filled doughnuts didn’t contain real raspberries. After Krispy Kreme was denied a motion to dismiss (plaintiff plausibly alleged the product was misleadingly labelled), the case was voluntarily dismissed without explanation (Doc #34).
July 2017
Soaps and Lotions Not So Pure?
Paul v. Beaumont Products (d/b/a Clearly Natural Essentials)
Class complaint – Beaumont allegedly marketed its Clearly Natural Essentials products as ‘Clearly Natural’ and ‘Pure and Natural’ despite the fact they contained artificial and synthetic ingredients. Plaintiffs claimed these ingredients included: Sodium Citrate, Tocopherol Acetate, Decyl Glucoside, Cetyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin and Glycerin.
Plaintiffs claimed they would not have paid a premium price for Clearly Natural Essentials had they understood the true nature of the products.
[C.D. CA: 8:17-cv-01225]
jbho: another test of an as yet under-regulated term. Plaintiffs alleged Glycerin was one of the artificial ingredients, but all the products in the complaint are clearly labelled as “Glycerine Soap/Lotion.”
It will also be interesting to see if the ‘Clearly Natural’ language will be considered an objectively provable claim, since ‘Clearly Natural’ has been part of the product’s name since 2012 (Registation No. 4240294). Puffery/Company Pride? or requires substantiation? Stay tuned.
BTW: Also interesting is the allegation that Sodium Chloride is a “synthetic and hazardous chemical substance.” Somebody alert the Food Network.
$9 Million Settlement For Natural & Health Claims
Townsend v. Blue Diamond
$9M settlement – Blue Diamond allegedly marketed its Almond Breeze and Nut Thins products as ‘All Natural’ despite the fact they contained synthetic ingredients. Plaintiffs further alleged Blue Diamond deceptively labeled sugar as ‘evaporated cane juice.’ Finally, plaintiffs claimed Almond Breeze misleadingly advertised products with high almond content as healthy, and used the American Heart Association’s (AHA) ‘Heart Check-Mark’ symbol without proper authorization.
Highlights include:
- $8,995,000 settlement fund
- $7,500,000.00 for Almond Breeze products
- $1,495,000.00 for Nut-Thins products
- $1 – $10 for each class member
- $1.00 per unit for up to 5 units of Almond Breeze products WITHOUT Proof of Purchase
- $1.00 per unit for up to 10 units of Almond Breeze products WITH Proof of Purchase
- $1.00 per unit for up to 5 units of Nut-Thins products WITHOUT Proof of Purchase
- $1.00 per unit for up to 10 units of Nut-Thins products WITH Proof of Purchase
- $31,000 for class representatives
- $5,000 for each Almond Breeze class representative (2)
- $3,000 for each Nut-Thin class representative (7)
- $2,933,570.00 for class counsel (30% of settlement fund)
In addition to the cash settlement, Almond Breeze agreed to:
- Remove ‘All Natural’ claims from product packaging and advertising
- but can use the term ‘natural’ in ingredient lists, in accordance with FDA regulations
- Remove ‘evaporated cane juice’ from the list of ingredients
- Remove the AHA ‘Heart Check-Mark’ symbol from product packaging and advertising, unless the product has been properly certified
- Change the phrase ‘Made from Real Almonds’ on Almond Breeze products to ‘Made with Real Almonds’
- Remove the image of two hands holding almonds from product packaging
[Washington Co. (AR) Circ. Ct.; 14-958-4]
jbho: good idea to make sure any natural or health claims are supported by appropriate testing, and perhaps verified by an independent 3rd party.
Note that FDA guidance has clarified it considers the term ‘evaporated cane juice’ to be misleading since it suggests that the sweetener is derived from fruit or vegetable juice, and does not reveal that the ingredient is essentially sugar.
Note also that a similar action alleging Almond Breeze products contained synthetic and artificial ingredients and chemical preservatives was recently stayed in federal court pending the results of this trial (Harlam v. Bleu Diamond – E.D. N.Y.; 1:15-cv-00877). It will be interesting to see what happens there.
Veggie Straws More Straw Than Vegetable?
Solak v. Hain Celestial (d/b/a Sensible Portions)
Class complaint – Sensible Portions allegedly marketed its ‘Veggie Straws’ as healthy and nutritious, facts contradicted by the actual nutrition content of the snacks. Plaintiffs claimed that despite images of whole potatoes, tomatoes, and spinach on product packaging, the product contained only “highly processed byproducts” of those vegetables – potato starch, potato flour, corn starch, tomato paste and spinach powder – that “lack(ed) the nutritional value of their whole vegetable counterparts.”
Plaintiffs claimed they would not have purchased the Veggie Straws had the had known the true whole vegetable content, nutritional and health qualities of the product.
Claims were filed under New York and California UDAP & False Advertising Laws.
[N.D. N.Y.; 3:17-cv-00704]
jbho: hmmm. Seems pretty obvious to me that a processed snack is unlikely to contain fresh vegetables. It will likely be tough to prove no “garden grown” or “ripe” vegetables made it to the final product, even if the nutrients were processed out. I haven’t seen the entirety of the packaging, but a website mentioned in the complaint does state ‘made with.’ Nonetheless, if the product doesn’t contain the raw ingredients, plaintiff may have a case.
For my TCPA readers: plaintiffs are represented by Sergei Lemberg. As a fan, I’ll definitely be watching this one.
UPDATE 17Apr2018 – dismissed (doc#14). The court found that the label truthfully displayed the product as straws, made from the direct byproducts of vegetables, even if some of the ingredients may have been present only in trace amounts. Moreover, the straws were pictured prominently, while the images of the fresh whole vegetables were smaller and in the background. Finally the product was represented as chip-like snack, and any ambiguity was resolved by the ingredient list, so that the label “in no way assert(ed) that consumers will actually find whole, ripe, garden grown potatoes, tomatoes, or spinach hidden among the Straws.”
Never-ending Discount Not Really A Discount
Seegert v. Luxottica
Class complaint – Lens Crafters (owned by Luxottica) allegedly used continuously running “xx% Off Lenses with Frame Purchase” promotions to inducing consumers to purchase products with misleading discounts. Plaintiff claimed she purchased a pair of prescription lenses for $179.00 (original price $298.34). Upon investigation, she claimed she discovered the lenses were “never offered for sale or sold at the $298.34 price, nor were they offered for sale or sold at that price within the 90-day period immediately preceding.”
Plaintiff alleged the quoted ‘regular price’ for prescription lenses – which was listed only on customer receipts – had never been charged. Plaintiff further alleged these ‘regular prices’ did not reflect the prevailing market retail price within the three months immediately preceding the promotion (as required under California law), and Lens Crafters did not sell a substantial quantity of prescription lenses for a reasonable period of time (as required by the FTC).
[S.D. CA; 3:17-cv-01372]
jbho: yet another accusation of deceiving consumers into:
1) making purchases they otherwise would not have made, or
2) paying substantially more for merchandise that it’s actually worth
Remember that Advertised Reference Prices (ARPs) must based on an actual price, supported by evidence of the price basis.
Is Naturally Derived ‘Natural’?
Gregorio v. Clorox
Class complaint – Clorox allegedly marketed its Green Works products as ‘naturally derived’ despite the fact they contained synthetic and non-natural ingredients. Plaintiffs claimed these synthetic and non-natural ingredients included: Boric Acid, Calcium Chloride, Citric Acid, Cocamine Oxide, Dimethicone/Silica Antifoam, Fragrance, Glycerin, Hydrogen Peroxide, Isopropanol, Lauryl Glucoside, Liquitint® Blue HP Dye, Liquitint® Bright Yellow Dye, Methylisothiazolinone, Octylisothiazolinone, Potassium Carbonate, Potassium Citrate, Sodium Gluconate (derived from GMOs), Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, and Xanthan Gum.
Plaintiffs claimed they would not have purchased Green Works products had they understood the true nature of the products, or would have only been willing to pay significantly less for the products.
UPDATE: 6Feb2018 – motion to dismiss denied in part (Doc#52). The court found the complaint plausibly alleged that Green Works labeling was misleading to a reasonable consumer. However, the court dismissed Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (MMWA) claims, finding the amount in controversy of an individual claim must be greater or equal to $25 and the product at issue must cost more than five dollars – and no allegations in the complaint spoke to either requirement. Plaintiff was given 28 days to cure that deficiency.
[N.D. CA; 3:17-cv-03824]
jbho: ‘natural’ is still a relatively unregulated term, so not sure how far this one will go. Stay tuned.
June 2017
Patriot Alleges He Was Duped By Misleading ‘Made in USA’ Claims
O’Sullivan v. iSpring
Class complaint – Water filtration system maker iSpring allegedly advertised its products as ‘Built in USA,’ despite the fact its parts and products were significantly sourced from overseas or imported completely. Plaintiff alleged despite iSpring representations, “all or virtually all” of its products were not made in the United States. Plaintiff further alleged these unqualified, express claims caused plaintiff to pay a premium for what he believed to be American made products, products he would not have bought had he known their true origin.
Claims were filed under the Georgia Fair Business Practices Act and the South Carolina Unfair Trade Practices Act, as well as unjust enrichment claims.
[N.D. GA; 1:17-cv-02237]
jbho: Note that FTC guidance specifically warns against using general terms like ‘produced,’ ‘created’ or ‘manufactured’ in the USA, since they are unlikely to be complete, and would likely require additional qualification. I guess we can add ‘built’ to that list.
“Made in USA” cases seem to be ramping up lately. According to the National Law Journal, 11 companies have come under scrutiny just this year.
Also of interest, the complaint references a recent FTC settlement with iSpring for the same alleged misleading “Made in USA” claims. Highlights from the FTC Order include:
- Prohibits iSpring from making “Made in USA” claims unless:
- final assembly or processing of the product occurs in the United States
- all significant processing that goes into the product occurs in the United States
- all or virtually all ingredients or components of the product are made and sourced in the United States
- Prohibits iSpring from making misleading claims about country of origin of its products
- iSpring must deliver a copy of the Order to all employees, agents, and partners for the next 20 years
- Maintain for the next 20 years:
- accounting records
- personnel records
- all consumer complaints and refund requests
- all records necessary to demonstrate full compliance with each provision of the Order
- all ad copy or other marketing material making “Made in USA” claims
- substantiation of such claims for 5 years after made
The order remains in effect for 20 years.
$30 Million Settlement In Deceptive Pricing Suit
Horosny v. Burlington Coat Factory
$30M settlement – Burlington allegedly used artificially inflated reference pricing to induce sales by misleading consumers as to an actual discount. Plaintiffs claimed the quoted ‘Compare to’ prices did not represent the price paid for substantial sales of comparable items at any other retailer, at any time or location. Plaintiffs further alleged Burlington failed to provide disclosures clarifying the basis for its Advertised Reference Prices (ARPs).
Highlights include:
• $29,824,500 non-reversionary settlement fund
• $7.50 merchandise certificate for each class member (~3.7M members), redeemable as $5 cash in-store or via mail
• $5,000 for each class representative (2)
• $1,137,000 for settlement administration
• $927,500 for class counsel (3% of settlement fund)
[C.D. CA; 2:15-cv-05005]
jbho: discount rates must be based on an actual price, supported by evidence of the price basis (how a company actually listed prices: MSRP, etc.), and you must disclose the basis for the pricing to consumers.
Interesting here is that recent cases I’ve seen seem to focus on store brand markups, and the fact that base pricing is deceptive since store brand merchandise is only sold at defendants’ locations. Here, the allegations seem to include any item sold, and that the MSRP/ARP quoted weren’t based on any available data.
$1.55 Million Settlement For Less Than Honest Natural Claims
In Re The Honest Company SLS Litigation
$1.55M preliminary settlement – The Honest Company allegedly marketed its Laundry Detergent, Dish Soap, and Multi-Surface Cleaner as being natural and free of harmful chemicals like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). The Honest Company advertised on its products, its website, and on social media that its products were ‘Honestly Free of SLS‘ or ‘Honestly made without SLS,’ and instead contained Sodium Coco Sulfate (SCS), a coconut based cleanser that was a gentler alternative to harsh chemicals like SLS. However, plaintiffs claimed, the representation that SCS products were SLS free was misleading, as Sodium Coco Sulfate was 66% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (according to studies cited in the complaint). The products allegedly contained SLS in concentrations of up to 14%.
Highlights include:
• $1,550,000 non-reversionary settlement fund
• at least $50 for each class member (eligible for more if have proof of purchase)
— class members may also opt for an Honest Company credit , valued at 1.5 times the recovery amount
• $1,000 for each class representative
• $387,500 for class counsel (25% of settlement fund)
[C.D. CA; 2:16-ml-02719]
jbho: another reason to be careful when using absolutes in advertising.
Additionally, a reason to make sure you know the products you’re advertising. I doubt the copywriters or marketing department would have known SCS contained SLS. But someone, somewhere in the chain dropped the ball. Maybe you should consider adding product ingredient claims to your QA checklists?
It appears The Honest Company has agreed to reformulate its products excluding SLS/SCS entirely.
Poultry Producer Runs Afoul Of Consumer Expectations
OCA v. Sanderson
Class complaint – Sanderson allegedly advertised its processed chicken products as ‘100% Natural,’ despite USDA testing that revealed the presence of antibiotics, tranquilizers, and other pharmaceuticals, some of which were not FDA approved for use in poultry. Plaintiffs also alleged testing detected the presence of pesticides that exceeded permitted thresholds or were not FDA approved for poultry. Plaintiffs further alleged despite the presence of these substances, Sanderson marketed it’s chicken products as:
• “100% Natural”
• “only chicken in our chicken”
• “no added hormones or steroids”
• “raised without antibiotics”
• “antibiotic free”
Finally, plaintiffs alleged these claims were contradicted on Sanderson’s own website and social media feeds by statements such as “We don’t order antibiotics to be used unless the veterinarians deem them needed for flock health reasons.”
The complaint was filed by the Organic Consumers Association (OCA), Friends of the Earth, and Center For Food Safety.
[N.D. CA; 3:17-cv-03592]
jbho: the complaint is quite thorough in identifying the alleged ‘non-natural’ substances. Kinda scary reading. But remember, at this point they are only allegations. Allegations Sanderson vigorously denies.
https://www.sandersonfarms.com/press-releases/sanderson-farms-comments-on-california-complaint/
The FDA hasn’t really provided much guidance on the term ‘natural,’ other than to say products should not contain artificial flavor, artificial colors, chemical preservatives, or any other artificial or synthetic ingredient, and products should only be ‘minimally processed.’ Final guidance on the use of term ‘natural’ was expected by the end of 2016, but AFAIK it hasn’t yet been released?
The USDA is updating its own ‘natural’ guidelines, but they have not yet been open to public comment.
Note also that recent FTC enforcement has focused less on ‘natural,’ but more on the ‘100%’ claim as misleading.
UPDATE: 11Aug2017 – The National Advertising Division issued a ruling calling Sanderson’s use of “raised without antibiotics” as a marketing gimmick or trick. Sanderson has agreed (under protest) to discontinue those claims. On the “antibiotic free” claim, NAD found this to be valid, since by federal law requires chicken be clear of antibiotics before they leave the farm, so no chicken in grocery stores contain antibiotics. The “antibiotic free” claim was acceptable since Sanderson believed 72 percent of consumers incorrectly believe that chicken sold in supermarkets contain antibiotics.”
http://www.asrcreviews.org/nad-recommends-sanderson-farms-discontinue-claims-about-tricks-gimmicks-finds-company-can-support-certain-claims-referencing-federal-law/
Natural Cheese Suit Get Shredded
Morales v. Kraft
Defendant’s MSJ granted in part – Kraft allegedly marketed its ‘Natural Cheese’ as natural despite the fact it contained artificial color (neither healthy nor safe).
In decertifying the class, the court found the study produced by plaintiffs that determined consumers would pay $0.75 more for a ‘natural’ alternative cheese was insufficient to establish a basis for calculating restitution (based on perceived loss rather than actual money received by defendant in connection with the sale of the Product).
“(The study) did not measure the market value of the Product either with the “natural cheese” label or without it. Rather, his analysis measured how much consumers value that label.”
Therefore, the class was decertified as to remedies.
The court ordered the parties to file briefs on recertifying the class, but for injunctive relief only. Triable issues of fact being:
(1) whether a reasonable consumer would interpret ‘natural cheese’ to mean no artificial coloring added
(2) whether that belief is material to a purchasing decision
(3) whether all artificial colors, regardless of source, are artificial ingredients
Plaintiff’s brief is due 16Jun2017, defendant’s response 23Jun2017.
[C.D. CA; 2:14-cv-04387]
jbho: interesting, the court declined to exclude the study that determined consumers would pay $0.75 more for a ‘natural’ alternative cheese. The court found many of Kraft’s challenges spoke to the weight, not the admissibility of the study. Thus, the reliability of the study was an “issue for the factfinder,” and denied Kraft’s motion to exclude. Although given the decertification, the point seems moot. However, the court felt the report still addressed materiality concerns relevant to the injunctive relief claims.
All told, the 20 pages of dicta dedicated to analysis of the study & methodology make for some interesting reading.
NJ Hospital Allegedly Misappropriated Likeness For Fitness Ads
Llopiz v. Hackensack UMC
Class complaint – Hackensack University Medical Center (UMC) allegedly used photos of plaintiff, photos taken for ‘internal use’ only, on Out-Of-Home (OOH) advertising materials, including in brochures and on a roadside billboard. Plaintiff claimed she only consented to ‘internal use,’ and the signature on a release allowing commercial use of her likeness was forged.
[Bergen Co. Sup. Ct.; L-3821-17]
jbho: a reminder of the importance of having well-structured agreements, clearly and conspicuously communicated, and well preserved in the event consent needs to be verified.
And if you’re going to use likenesses in advertising, you might want to plan ways to retrieve or pull down that advertising in the event the subject changes his/her mind.
May 2017
Retailer Accused Of Misleading Base Prices
Chase v. Hobby Lobby
Class complaint – Hobby Lobby allegedly used fictitious ‘marked’ prices on Hobby Lobby merchandise that induced sales by misleading consumers as to an actual discount. Plaintiff further alleged that Hobby Lobby never sold products – available only at Hobby Lobby – at the claimed ‘marked’ prices. Plaintiff claimed she never would have bought items has she known the actual prices, and the true value she was receiving from her purchases.
UPDATE: 8Feb2018 – motion to dismiss denied (Doc#30) The court found that plaintiff adequately redressed deficiencies in her prior complaint (who, what, when and where were sufficient, but the ‘how’ was lacking). Specifically, plaintiff now alleged that she (1) only noticed the large boldfaced 50% OFF language; (2) did not notice the word “always” because it was in substantially smaller font; (3) did not notice and did not read any disclaimer or other language on the placard. The court concluded it was plausible that a reasonable consumer could have failed to notice the disclaimers and believe products had previously been sold at Hobby Lobby at a reduced price. “There is a significant difference between viewing a (product) in your hand at a close distance, and viewing a pricing placard in the context of an aisle of photo frames.” Thus, it was inappropriate to resolve whether a reasonable consumer would be deceived under the circumstances alleged at the motion to dismiss phase.
[S.D. CA; 3:17-cv-00881]
jbho: note that Hobby Lobby recently settled similar allegations with the AG in Virginia, and agreed to cease comparison pricing in violation of VA state law, as well as pay $8,000 to cover the costs of the AG’s investigation.
Supplement Maker Accused Misleading BOGO Prices
Larson v. Puritan’s Pride
Class complaint – Puritan allegedly artificially inflated the prices of its products in Buy One Get One (BOGO) free promotions, inducing consumers to unknowingly purchase products at a premium price. Plaintiff further alleged that Puritan ran promotions indicating the BOGO offers were limited in time, however, they had been running continuously for the past four years. Plaintiffs claimed they would not have bought items had they known the cost of the ‘free’ product was built into the base price.
[N.D CA; 3:17-cv-02536]
jbho: a new twist on misleading base pricing litigation? Remember discount rates must be based on an actual price, supported by evidence of the price basis (how a company actually determines the listed prices), and the basis for the pricing to consumers must be readily available.
March 2017
Social Media And Risks Of User Generated Content (UGC) In Advertising
Kraft v. Anheuser-Busch
Complaint – Anheuser-Busch allegedly used a photograph of plaintiff, without permission, to promote its ‘Natural Light’ product. Plaintiff alleges a Facebook picture was used without her permission as part of an “Every Natty has a Story” Natural Light advertising campaign.
Timeline of events:
• Feb 2013 – photo of plaintiff taken, posted to plaintiff’s Facebook account
• March to June 2014 – “Natty Rewards” promotion
• 2014 to 201? – Every Natty has a Story campaign
• May, June 2016 – ownership of photo assigned to plaintiff, copyright registered
• Feb 2017 – complaint filed
Anheuser-Busch has stated it had permission to use the image, as it was submitted through its “Natty Rewards” Facebook promotion.
[E.D. N.C.; 4:17-cv-00022]
jbho: a reminder to make sure you are getting appropriate consent for third-party content in your ads.
If you are going to use a likenesses or User Generated Content (UGC) in advertising campaigns, you might want to get a signed consent release, rather than rely on click-wrap terms. And make sure the submitter actually has the authority to grant the necessary rights.
The Natty terms did grant Anheuser-Busch an “exclusive, worldwide, perpetual, irrevocable, unrestricted, royaltyfree, sub-licensable right and license to exploit your Entry…” (https://natty-rewards.herokuapp.com/rules.pdf). Perhaps the validity of that agreement will be analyzed.
Alternatively, Anheuser-Busch could well be a victim of “sabotage liability,” and some unknown third party surreptitiously entered plaintiff. Guess we’ll have to wait and see.
Suit Over Alleged Use-Or-Lose Audiobook Credits
McKee v. Amazon (Audible)
Class complaint – Amazon allegedly failed to adequately inform Audible subscription holders there was a ceiling on credits, and any unused credits would be forfeited when cancelling a subscription. Plaintiff claimed this was inconsistent with claims made in advertisements that stated:
• one credit equals one audiobook
• stored credits are ‘rolled over’ to your next billing cycle
• ‘no strings attached’ if a consumer wants to cancel
Plaintiff claimed the restrictions and loss of credits were not adequately disclosed at the ‘point of sale’ (the tickbox to check at purchase), and were only presented in “inconspicuous fine print,” stating:
• “once you have reached the roll over limit for your membership plan, your oldest credit(s) will expire in order for you to receive new credits”
• “membership credits do not expire’ as long as you have a membership”
Thus, argued plaintiff, one credit did not equal one audiobook, as credits could expire or be revoked. Plaintiff further claimed the restrictions violated gift cards laws – the Audible credits being ‘gift cards’ since they were only redeemable at Audible.
Plaintiff also alleged the automatic payment renewal information did not meet statutory requirements*, and failed to inform consumers they would be charged every month in perpetuity, without notice, against any card associated with any Amazon account.
*Must be in text larger than surrounding text, in contrasting type, font, or color, or otherwise set off from the surrounding text.
[C.D. CA: 2:17-cv-01941]
jbho: a reminder that and restrictions or limitation must be clearly and conspicuously disclosed. And disclaimers cannot contradict the claim. Also for recurring charges, make sure to get express informed consent, which is, of course, dependent on the quality of the aforementioned disclosures.
February 2017
Entire Chain Of Events Must Be Considered In False Ad Suit
Veera v. Banana Republic
Reversed – Banana Republic allegedly posted 40% discount signs in store windows that did not disclose sale limitations. Plaintiffs claimed the limitations were only made know when ringing items at the register, after investing time in selecting items and waiting in a checkout line. Plaintiffs purchased some of the items selected, stating, “to leave with nothing would be a complete and utter waste of energy and time.” They did not ask to speak to a manager or call Banana Republic to complain. Plaintiffs claimed embarrassment, frustration, and desires to “not make a scene” caused them to make purchases and promptly leave.
The county court granted defendant’s motion for summary judgement finding that lost shopping time was not money or property required to confer standing (particularly since some plaintiffs made purchases anyway).
The appellate court found plaintiffs adequately pled economic harm by alleging Banana Republic sold items to plaintiffs in violation of California law* (“plaintiffs had a legally protected interest in knowing from the outset, when they started to shop, the true prices of the items they chose to buy“). If reliance on the alleged misleading advertising was a substantial
factor in plaintiffs’ decisions to buy, there would be a causal link to any economic harms. That plaintiffs made a purchase (i.e., the scheme was successful), did not deprive plaintiffs of standing.
Additionally, there were factual disputes as to the contents of the signage viewed by plaintiffs. Some were qualified or disclaimed: “Save 40% on select styles*” or “Save 40% on your purchase.*”, but Exhibits presented signage with no asterisks (disclaimers).
The appellate court therefore reversed, ruling there were triable issues of fact and evidence presented by defendant was insufficient to warrant summary judgment.
[CA Appelate Ct. 2nd Dist.; B270796 (Orig: LA Co Super. Ct.; BC541146)]
jbho: a reminder of the importance of clear and conspicuous disclosures. Following the 4Ps (presentation, proximity, prominence, and placement) is always a good idea. If plaintiffs can show they were lured into a purchase, there is always the potential for UDAP-type violations.
Although, this one is likely far from over. In a dissenting opinion, one justice criticized the “momentum to buy” theory, and felt since plaintiffs changed their purchase decisions, they cannot say they relied on any misrepresentations – thus the defendant’s MSJ should have been affirmed.
*For the record, claims were brought under California’s Unfair Competition Law (UCL – Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 17200 et seq.), False Advertising Law (FAL – Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 17500 et seq.), and Consumers Legal Remedies Act (CLRA – Civ. Code §§ 1750 et
seq.).
One Million Dollars Per Hour For Alleged Energy Drink Misrepresentations
State of Washington v. Living Essentials (5-Hour-Energy)
$4.3M final judgement – Living Essentials (LE) ran ads and used product packaging that allegedly made misleading claims about the effectiveness of its Decaf 5-Hour Energy drink. The AGs office alleged that Decaf 5-Hour Energy was deceptively advertised as:
• superior to coffee
• recommended by doctors
• generated energy and alertness that ‘lasts for hours’
• ‘provides a sustained energy boost’
As a result LE was:
- Enjoined from making performance claims that are not supported by competent and reliable scientific evidence, alone or in combination with other products/ingredients
- Enjoined from misrepresenting survey results in advertising survey data used in advertising claims must be created, conducted, and evaluated by qualified professionals, using survey industry accepted/approved methods
- Ordered to pay the AGs office $2,095,992.63 in fees and costs
- Ordered to pay $2,183,747 in civil penalties for allegedly deceptive ads/packaging
- Ask Your Doctor” ad (aired 19,716 times * $100 = $1,971,600)
- “Choose Wisely” ad (aired 1,040 times * $100 = $104,000)
- “Construction Site Cowboy” ad (aired 975 times * $100 = $97,500)
- misleading product labels (2,482 units sold * $4.29 = $10,647)
The AGs office argued the penalties were reasonable as there were a large number of sales over a short period of time, once consumed there was no way to return the product or reverse any health impacts, and defendant “spent more time trying to justify the science behind their ads after-the-fact (i.e., at trial) than they did before marketing the products”.
[King Co (WA) Super. Ct.; 14-2-19684-9]
jbho: I think the main lesson here is if you are going to cite product tests, or scientific testing in your ads, make sure those test are verified by an independent 3rd party.
Living Essentials has indicted they will appeal. Interestingly, LE prevailed in a similar suit in Oregon, where the court found the claims were puffery as they were subjective statement about “a ‘feeling’ of energy or alertness” (Multinomah Co (OR) Circ. Ct; 14CV09149), and even if misleading would not materially influence consumer purchasing decisions. Additionally, the studies cited were subject to varying interpretations, so to the extent statements may have been misleading, the court felt they were not willful.
November 2016
Real Suit Over Fake Sale Prices Moves Forward
Shimono v. Harbor Freight Tools
Motion to dismiss denied – Harbor Freight allegedly inflated base prices of tools/equipment, failed to disclose warranty terms (of its inferior products), and printed misleading coupons (obscured that 20% was off one item rather than entire purchase & discount applied to lowest-priced item not the ‘any item’ advertised). Plaintiff alleged he would not have made purchases or not paid as much, absent Harbor Freight’s misrepresentations.
The court found plaintiff’s alleged losses (economic injury) were both ‘concrete and particularized’ injuries. Since plaintiff’s allegations were based upon a reasonable investigation (strike-through prices did not represent prevailing retail prices), plaintiff stated a plausible claim (pattern of deception, even if plaintiff may not have purchased all products in his research).
[C.D. CA; 5:16-cv-01052]
jbho: a reminder to make sure ad copy is accurate, and any needed disclosures are displayed clearly and conspicuously
October 2016
Qualified Statements Not Misleading
XYZ Two Way Radio v. Uber
Dismissed – Uber allegedly misrepresented its background checks in its advertising. The court found that the challenged statements were aspirational, and qualified with terms like ‘committed to,’ ‘aim to,’ ‘believe deeply.’
[E.D. N.Y.; 1:15-cv-03015]
jbho: a reminder to avoid absolutes in advertising copy.
Also interesting it appears that Uber had pulled statements like ‘industry leading’ and ‘leads the industry’ from its copy in late 2014. Uber now uses phrases like ‘constantly improving’ instead.