General Mills, the manufacturer of Cheerios, is facing a class-action lawsuit over allegations that the popular oat-based cereal contains high levels of a harmful pesticide. The lawsuit, filed by plaintiff Steven Epstein, claims that General Mills has been marketing and distributing Cheerios without disclosing the presence of the pesticide, chlormequat chloride, which independent studies have reportedly confirmed.
Key Takeaway
A class-action lawsuit has been filed against General Mills, alleging that Cheerios contains harmful levels of a pesticide, chlormequat chloride. The plaintiff, Steven Epstein, claims that the presence of the pesticide was not disclosed in the product’s marketing and advertising, and is seeking millions in damages.
Allegations and Claims
In the lawsuit, Steven Epstein, a New York native, alleges that he purchased a box of Cheerios in January without being aware of the presence of chlormequat chloride. He asserts that the product’s advertising, marketing, and listed ingredients did not indicate the presence of the pesticide. According to Epstein, chlormequat chloride has been linked to potential issues with fetal growth and the nervous system. He contends that had he known about the pesticide’s presence and the potential risks associated with consuming it, he would not have purchased the product or would have been willing to pay significantly less for it.
Legal Action and Response
Steven Epstein is seeking to form a class action and is pursuing millions of dollars in damages, citing material misrepresentations and omissions in the marketing of Cheerios. General Mills has been contacted for comment, but there has been no response thus far.
