Frito-Lay Settles False Labeling Suit Over GMOs

Settling a class action suit filed in 2012, snack maker Frito-Lay has agreed to remove the package claim “All Natural” from any products that contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The suit had accused Frito-Lay of violating several false labeling and consumer protection statutes, and generally misleading consumers. The crux of plaintiffs’ argument was that GMOs do not occur naturally, therefore a product containing them cannot be called “all natural.” The company agreed to pay up to $2.1 million in plaintiffs’ attorneys' fees and costs and spend $215,000 to inform consumers about the settlement. As much as $5,000 was awarded to each of the named plaintiffs. A final decision is pending because two unnamed plaintiffs objected to the settlement, which does not create enforceable law regarding GMOs. [Image Credit: © Frito-Lay ]