Putative Class Challenges “100% Natural” Labeling on GM Foods

A California resident has filed a putative class action against General Mills, Inc. alleging that two of its frozen vegetable “steamers” products are falsely advertised as “100% Natural” because they contain genetically modified (GM) ingredients. Cox v. General Mills, Inc., No. 12-6377 (N.D. Cal., filed December 17, 2012). According to the complaint, the products contain GM corn, soy, corn derivatives, and/or soy derivatives.

Seeking to certify a statewide class of those who have purchased Green Giant
Valley Fresh Steamers®, the plaintiff alleges violations of California’s False
Advertising and Unfair Competition laws and the California Consumers Legal
Remedies Act. She requests injunctive relief; restitution; disgorgement; actual,
statutory and punitive damages; attorney’s fees; costs; and interest.