Various Hain Celestial Food Products

April 2016: This case was stayed pending the FDA’s decision regarding the use of the word “natural.”

July 2014: Plaintiffs filed an amended complaint similarly alleging that the company misleadingly labels products as being “all natural” and containing “no trans fat.”

May 2014: A federal judge dismissed some of the class-action claims against The Hain Celestial Group. The complaint, which was originally filed in 2012, alleges that the company unlawfully and misleadingly labels products – including Terra Stripes & Blues Sea Salt Potato Chips, Coconut Dream Coconut Drink (Original), and Sensible Portions Sea Salt Garden Veggie Straws – as containing “no trans fat,” containing “evaporated cane juice,” and “all natural.” The judge dismissed the “evaporated cane juice” claims finding, among other things, that the FDA is the appropriate authority to resolve the issues. In addition, the judge dismissed the claims regarding products the plaintiff did not purchase finding that the plaintiff did not have standing (i. e. a proper basis to sue). The judge dismissed the claims without prejudice, meaning that the plaintiffs can refile. (Smedt et al v. The Hain Celestial Group, Inc., Case No. 12-cv-03029, N. D. CA.).

For more information about other class-action lawsuits against The Hain Celestial Group and TINA.org’s coverage of the company, click here.