A consumer has filed a putative class action against Ferrara Candy Co. claiming that its packaging of Jujyfruits and other candies misleads consumers by misrepresenting the amount of candy contained in each box. Iglesias v. Ferrara Candy Co., No. 17-­0849 (N.D. Cal., filed February 21, 2017). The plaintiff claims that Ferrara “shortchanges consumers” by under­filling its opaque candy boxes. In movie theaters, where boxed candies are sold, the boxes are kept behind glass showcases, the complaint asserts, and consumers have no opportunity to examine net weight, serving disclosures or other labeling until after paying for the candy. Moreover, the plaintiff claims that consumers’ purchasing decisions are heavily dependent on product packaging and that “consumers are apt to choose the larger box because they think it’s a better value.” The action includes other candy lines manufactured by Ferrara, including Lemonhead , RedHots , Chuckles , Brach’s and Atomic Fireball products. For alleged violations of California’s Consumers Legal Remedies Act, False Advertising and Unfair Competition laws, the plaintiff seeks class certification, damages and attorney’s fees.

 

Issue 627

About The Author

For decades, manufacturers, distributors and retailers at every link in the food chain have come to Shook, Hardy & Bacon to partner with a legal team that understands the issues they face in today's evolving food production industry. Shook attorneys work with some of the world's largest food, beverage and agribusiness companies to establish preventative measures, conduct internal audits, develop public relations strategies, and advance tort reform initiatives.

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