A class action lawsuit has been filed against Cape Cod potato chips in a New York federal court, alleging the brand misled consumers by claiming their products contain "no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives." Plaintiff Rozaliya Ripa, who purchased the sea salt & vinegar flavor, claims the presence of synthetic citric acid contradicts the natural labeling. CBS News Boston reports Ripa says she would not have bought or would have paid less for the chips had she known.
Cape Cod, acquired by The Campbell’s Company in 2018, declined to comment on the lawsuit, telling that it is pending. The chips are still produced in Hyannis, Massachusetts, though factory tours have been suspended.
The lawsuit notes synthetic citric acid is made from industrial chemicals, according to Independent. The complaint claims Cape Cod has systematically misled consumers by marketing the chips as preservative-free. An initial court conference is scheduled for December.
