Facts

Patrick Garrett, Jeff Mains, and Linda Eustice filed a consumer class action against Bumble Bee Foods LLC concerning its labeling of tuna products as an "excellent source" of Omega-3 fatty acids.

PLAINTIFFS' CONTENTIONS:
Defendant allegedly duped consumers regarding the health benefits of its canned tuna products. Defendant allegedly used the American Heart Association logo, further misleading consumers of the alleged health benefits of its products. Plaintiff also alleged that the FDA did not approve of defendant's labels and that defendant paid AHA a fee to use the AHA logo. Plaintiff asserted causes of action for violation of California's Unfair Competition Law, Sherman Law, and related laws.

Result

The court found that Bumble Bee's labels made essentially the same Omega-3 claim as an FDA-approved claim, and plaintiffs failed to meet their burden of proving the AHA logo was a paid endorsement. The court concluded the alleged misstatements were not material to consumers and any injury to consumers brought on by Bumble Bee's allegedly misleading labeling was "de minimis at best," resulting in a defense judgment.

Other Information

FILING DATE: June 3, 2014.