Van’s Frozen Breakfast Foods

September 2015: A state judge granted final approval of the settlement.

June 2015: A state judge preliminarily approved a settlement of a false advertising class-action lawsuit against Van’s International Foods. The complaint, which was originally filed in April 2015, alleged that the company falsely marketed frozen breakfast products – including 8 Whole Grains Berry Waffles, Buttermilk Pancakes, Honey English Muffins, Wild Blueberry Muffin Crowns, Gluten Free Cinnamon French Toast Sticks, and Vanilla Waffle Sticks – as “All Natural,” “Totally Natural,” and “Naturally Delicious” when they actually contain synthetic ingredients.

According to the settlement terms, Van’s will provide refunds to class members, the amount of which will depend on a variety of factors, including whether the class member has proof of purchase (a class member with proof of purchase may recover up to $18 per household). In addition, Van’s agreed to stop representing products containing sodium acid pyrophosphate (SAPP), a synthetic ingredient, as “All Natural,” “Totally Natural,” or “Naturally Delicious.” A final fairness hearing is scheduled for September 17, 2015. (Miloro et al v. Van’s International Foods, Inc., Case No. 15PH-CV00642, Phelps County Circuit Court, Missouri)

For more information about the “all natural” claims and TINA.org’s coverage of the issue, click here.