The US administration’s emphasis on domestic manufacturing has led to a surge in lawsuits against companies making “Made in America” claims. Dozens of brands, including well-known consumer goods makers like Goya Foods and French’s Mustard, are facing legal action over their advertising and packaging.
California-based law firm Kazerouni Law Group is driving the litigation, filing 13 class action suits so far this year, up from seven in all of last year. The cases allege that popular brands have mislabeled products as “Made in the USA” when they contain components sourced overseas.
High-profile companies like PepsiCo’s Pure Leaf Teas and Dude Wipes are being sued for making such claims. Goya Foods has already amended its advertising to avoid saying its products are made in America due to imported parts.
According to Abbas Kazerounian, founding partner of Kazerouni Law Group, the cases are part of an effort to educate the public and businesses about why these claims are important. “I think it’s essential to inform consumers and businesses alike about the importance of accurate labeling,” he said.
The odds are in favor of plaintiffs, with only five out of 80 “Made in America” class action suits being dismissed since 2011. No juries have favored defending companies, leading many to preemptively amend their advertising materials.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/yourmoney/article-14785389/brands-claiming-america-getting-sued.html