Costco's sued over iconic rotisserie chicken 'no preservatives' claim - Los Angeles Times

Costco is being sued in a proposed class action lawsuit by two California shoppers who claim the company falsely advertised its $4.99 rotisserie chicken as containing “no preservatives.” The lawsuit alleges that Costco misled customers by prominently displaying this claim while listing sodium phosphate and carrageenan – both considered preservatives – in the ingredient list. The plaintiffs argue that this deceptive practice prevented informed consumer choices and cost them money.

While the FDA deems both sodium phosphate and carrageenan safe at approved levels, studies have linked them to potential health concerns, including kidney strain, cardiovascular risks, and digestive inflammation. Costco has since removed the “no preservatives” statements from its in-store signage and online presentations, citing a desire for consistency.

The lawsuit seeks to represent a class of consumers who purchased the chicken nationwide and alleges violations of California consumer laws. The case is occurring amidst growing scrutiny of ultra-processed foods and increased consumer demand for preservative-free options, fueled in part by movements like Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” campaign. Costco’s rotisserie chicken is known as a “loss leader,” sold at a low price to attract customers to the store.

(Source：Los Angeles Times)