BALTIMORE (Legal Newsline) — A consumer class action alleges AriZona Beverages' sour fruit snack products are deceptively labeled as preservative-free.
Karen Smiley, on behalf of herself and all others similarly situated, filed a complaint April 26 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland against AriZona Beverages USA Inc., alleging violation of Maryland's Consumer Protection Act and other claims.
Smiley alleges in her complaint, that AriZona Beverages falsely claims its sour fruit snack products lack preservatives. She claims that although the products are labeled "preservative-free," they actually contain multiple preservatives including citric acid, ascorbic acid, lactic acid and fumaric acid, which are classified by the FDA as preservatives.
She further claims that AriZona has misbranded its fruit snack products in violation of federal and state regulations. Smiley alleges AriZona uses the deceptive marketing and labeling of its fruit snacks to capitalize on consumers' preference for less processed products. She claims consumers are deceptively led to believe the AriZona fruit snacks are a healthier choice and that AriZona's actions stifle competition and reduces consumer choices.
Smiley and the class seek monetary relief, interest, trial by jury and all other just relief. They are represented by Steffan Keeton of The Keeton Firm LLC in Pittsburgh.
U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland case number 1:23-CV-01107-ELH