Lawsuit Challenges “Alkaline” Water Claims

A consumer has filed a putative class action alleging Trader Joe’s Co. misleads consumers with its alkaline water, which the company purportedly markets as “ionized to achieve the perfect balance.” Weiss v. Trader Joe’s Co., No. 18-1130 (C.D. Cal., S. Div., filed June 26, 2018). The complaint asserts that Trader Joe’s charges a premium for its alkaline water despite that “no genuine scientific research” supports the representations, including that the pH level of “9.5+” can provide additional hydration and balance out the acidity of certain foods. The plaintiff seeks class certification, injunctive relief, damages and attorney’s fees for alleged violations of California’s consumer-protection statutes.