Costco’s $4.99 rotisserie chicken gets roasted in lawsuit. Here’s what they’re claiming

Costco’s popular $4.99 rotisserie chicken is the subject of a proposed class action lawsuit alleging false advertising. Plaintiffs Bianca Johnston and Anatasia Chernov claim Costco misled customers by prominently advertising the chicken as containing “no preservatives” while listing sodium phosphate and carrageenan – both considered preservatives – in the ingredient list. The lawsuit argues this deception resulted in financial harm to consumers who sought preservative-free options.

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 issues. Costco has since removed the “no preservatives” claims from in-store signage and online descriptions, 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, as well as laws in Washington, where Costco is headquartered. The case is occurring amidst growing consumer scrutiny of ultra-processed foods and a rising demand for preservative-free alternatives, fueled in part by movements like Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” campaign. The chicken is known as a “loss leader” for Costco, sold at minimal profit to attract customers.

(Source：Santa Rosa Press Democrat)