Smartfood Popcorn Lawsuit: "No Artificial Ingredients" Claims Scrutinized

Case Overview: A class action lawsuit claims Smartfood popcorn contains artificial ingredients despite labeling claims of "No Artificial Flavors" and "No Artificial Preservatives."

Consumers Affected: Consumers in Illinois, New York, and California who purchased Smartfood popcorn.

Court: U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division

A new lawsuit alleges that Smartfood popcorn products mislead consumers through claims of containing "No Artificial Flavors" and "No Artificial Preservatives." Plaintiffs contend these representations are deceptive, as the products include maltodextrin, an ingredient classified as synthetic and used as both a preservative and flavoring agent.

Smartfood Popcorn Contains Artificial Ingredients Despite Label Claims

The lawsuit targets Smartfoods, Inc. and its parent company, PepsiCo, Inc., for their marketing and sale of Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn and Movie Theater Butter Popcorn. Plaintiffs argue that the prominent labeling, suggesting the absence of artificial ingredients, led customers to pay a premium price under false pretenses.

According to the filing, maltodextrin—a highly processed ingredient derived from starch—is central to the claims. Federal regulations and industry standards classify maltodextrin as artificial due to the chemical processes used in its production.

Plaintiffs assert that consumers seeking products free from artificial preservatives and flavors relied on the packaging claims and would not have purchased the products, or would have paid significantly less, had the ingredient been disclosed.

Maltodextrin Classified as Artificial Preservative and Flavoring Agent

The plaintiffs allege that Smartfoods has been marketing its popcorn as a healthier alternative, emphasizing the absence of artificial additives. The complaint states that this messaging appeals to health-conscious consumers and creates a perception of higher quality.

“Had Plaintiffs and Class members been aware of the truth about the Products, they would not have purchased them, or would have paid significantly less for them,” the lawsuit alleges.

One plaintiff, Rajeeyah Wilson, purchased Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn at a gas station in Chicago, Illinois. She claims to have relied on the product’s labeling when making her purchase, believing it to be free of artificial ingredients.

Maltodextrin, a common ingredient in processed foods, has faced scrutiny for its potential health impacts. It is produced through a chemical process called hydrolysis, which breaks down starches from sources like corn, rice, and potatoes into a white powder.

The lawsuit highlights studies linking maltodextrin to health concerns, including spikes in blood sugar, gastrointestinal discomfort, and potential long-term risks such as kidney damage and allergies.

Other Companies Face Similar Lawsuits Over Misleading Ingredient Claims

This case joins a series of lawsuits targeting food companies over misleading ingredient claims. For instance, Walmart faces allegations regarding its Parent’s Choice Yogurt Bites, which are marketed as preservative-free but contain ascorbic acid, a synthetic preservative.

CVS Health is also being sued over gummy supplements labeled as free of artificial preservatives, despite containing synthetic citric acid.

In the Smartfoods class action lawsuit, the plaintiffs seek to represent three proposed classes: Illinois residents, New York residents, and California residents who purchased the products under the belief they were free of artificial ingredients.

They are pursuing monetary damages, restitution, and injunctive relief. They request that Smartfoods and PepsiCo revise their labeling practices to accurately reflect the presence of synthetic ingredients in their popcorn.

Case Details

• Lawsuit: Wilson et al v. Smartfoods, Inc. and PepsiCo, Inc.
• Case Number: 1:24-cv-12814
• Court: U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Easter Division

Plaintiffs' Attorneys

• Robert Abiri (Custodio & Dubey, LLP)

Do you eat Smartfood popcorn? What are your thoughts on this lawsuit? Share your opinion in the comments below.