A Connecticut plaintiff filed a projected class action against Subway after DNA testing of the chain’s chicken sandwiches allegedly showed the meat was only 42 to 53 percent chicken and the remainder was processed soy. Moskowitz v. Doctor’s Associates Inc., No. 17­-0387 (D. Conn., filed March 1, 2017). Researchers affiliated with the Canadian Broadcasting Company’s “Marketplace” news show apparently found that the meat used in Subway’s oven-­roasted chicken items was only 53.6 percent chicken, while the meat used in the sweet onion teriyaki items was only 42.8 percent chicken.

The plaintiff claims that Subway is “disseminating false and misleading information via advertising, marketing, its website, and menu intended to trick unsuspecting customers, into believing they are purchasing chicken for their money, rather than Sandwiches and Chicken Strips containing a multitude of ingredients.” The complaint alleges violations of the federal Magnuson-­Moss Warranty Act, the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act, breach of warranties and unjust enrichment. The plaintiff seeks damages, corrective advertising and attorney’s fees.

 

Issue 627

About The Author

For decades, manufacturers, distributors and retailers at every link in the food chain have come to Shook, Hardy & Bacon to partner with a legal team that understands the issues they face in today's evolving food production industry. Shook attorneys work with some of the world's largest food, beverage and agribusiness companies to establish preventative measures, conduct internal audits, develop public relations strategies, and advance tort reform initiatives.

Close