Sheehan & Associates Sues Whole Foods Over False Cheese Claims.

A class action lawsuit has been filed against Whole Foods Market Group Inc. by Spencer Sheehan of Sheehan & Associates P.C., alleging that the company misrepresents its 365 brand Organic Mini Sandwich Cheese Crackers.

The lawsuit claims that these crackers are falsely advertised as being made with real organic cheddar cheese, despite containing more palm oil than cheese. The plaintiff, Edward Lovera, argues that the misleading labeling caused him and other consumers to overpay for the product.

Misleading Claims About Organic Cheese

According to the lawsuit, Whole Foods’ 365 brand cheese crackers contain more palm oil than organic cheddar cheese, which contradicts the product’s marketing. The complaint highlights that consumers were led to believe the crackers were made with nutritious organic cheddar cheese, but palm oil, which lacks the health benefits of milkfat, was the predominant filling ingredient.

Palm oil provides fewer nutrients, such as protein, good fats, vitamins, and minerals, making the product less beneficial than advertised.

Plaintiff Seeks Relief for Affected Consumers

Edward Lovera’s class action lawsuit seeks to represent consumers in New York who purchased the 365 brand Organic Mini Sandwich Cheese Crackers within the statute of limitations period.

Lovera argues that had consumers known the crackers were not made predominantly with real organic cheddar cheese, they would not have paid the premium price for the product. As a result of these false and misleading representations, the crackers were sold at a higher price than they were worth, according to the lawsuit.

Alleged Violation of New York Consumer Protection Laws

Lovera claims that Whole Foods’ actions violate New York’s General Business Law, which protects consumers from deceptive business practices.

The lawsuit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, meaning it demands that the court rule Whole Foods misrepresented the product and stop such advertising practices. Lovera also requests a jury trial and monetary damages for himself and all affected consumers.

Similar Lawsuits Against Major Food Companies

This lawsuit follows a similar legal battle filed against Mondelez Global LLC last year, over claims that their Ritz Bits Cracker Sandwiches were falsely marketed as containing real cheese.

Another case earlier this year targeted Eagle Family Food Groups LLC for misleading advertising of Hamburger Helper and Tuna Helper products as being made with real cheese. These ongoing cases highlight the increasing number of class actions against food manufacturers over misleading ingredient claims.

Spencer Sheehan is an experienced attorney and the founder of Sheehan & Associates, P.C. He has been practicing law since 2012, with a background in international relations and service in the U.S. Marine Corps. Sheehan earned his Juris Doctor from Fordham Law School in 2011 and his undergraduate degree from Georgetown University in 2002.

He is admitted to practice law in New York State and several federal courts, including the Eastern, Southern, and Northern Districts of New York, and the Northern District of Florida. Sheehan’s firm focuses on consumer and class action law, helping clients with issues such as false advertising, unfair business practices, and consumer protection.

Spencer Sheehan has built a reputation for tackling complex legal challenges and providing clear guidance to those facing seemingly insurmountable problems. He is committed to honesty and transparency, ensuring that clients are informed every step of the way. Sheehan also has a history of pro bono work, including assisting individuals with non-traditional animal companions.