Minute Maid parent company Coca-Cola is facing a class action lawsuit that accuses them of deceptive labeling regarding their six-ounce juice boxes. The lawsuit, filed by Gary Reynolds in March, claims that although the fruit depicted on Minute Maid packaging may be healthy, the juice itself contains concentrated sugar from fruit, which is not healthy. Reynolds cites scientific evidence that shows consuming fruit juice increases the risk of serious chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. According to Reynolds, the Coca-Cola Company is taking advantage of parents searching for healthy beverages for their children by deceptively promoting the idea that their juice is healthy. This information was obtained from Courthouse News.
The lawsuit argues that the labeling on Minute Maid juice boxes violates the FDA’s nutrient content regulations and fortification policy, as reported by the National Law Review. In response, Steven Zalesin, an attorney for Coca-Cola, argued the opposite during a court hearing in San Francisco. According to Zalesin, the “healthy” claims on the packaging meet the FDA’s requirements for both implied and explicit nutrient content claims. While the FDA has proposed updating the definition of the implied nutrient content claim of “healthy,” Zalesin argues that 100% fruit juice with no added sugars would still meet the criteria. Zalesin points out that under current regulations, Minute Maid can claim that their product contributes to a healthy diet because it is 100% juice with no added sugar and is an excellent source of vitamin C and B. This information is based on the Law Review.
US District Judge Vincent Chhabria expressed skepticism during the court hearing, noting that the labeling on Minute Maid juice boxes implies that fruit juice actively contributes to a healthy diet. Zalesin countered this by citing the Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services, which support the idea that fruit juice is indeed healthy. However, the CDC advises that while 100% juice can be given to children over 1 year old, whole fruits are healthier options. Judge Chhabria acknowledged that images of whole fruit on Minute Maid packaging could lead consumers to believe that fruit juice is as healthy as whole fruit, but Zalesin clarified that this was not the intention. Chhabria also noted that judges in California and across the country have inconsistent views on this issue. A ruling from Chhabria is expected within weeks. (Read more Minute Maid stories.)
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