Breyers Ice Cream has agreed to pay nearly $9 million as a result of a class-action lawsuit, and you may be one of the beneficiaries. On September 13, the New York State Supreme Court in Bronx County reported on the settlement reached against Conopco Inc. and Unilever United States Inc., the companies behind Breyers.
The lawsuit concerns Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream, which was apparently deceptively marketed as containing genuine vanilla flavor. “The plaintiffs allege that the labeling of Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream led consumers to believe that its flavor came exclusively from the vanilla plant, when in fact it included other flavors of different origin,” the court explained in its statement. “The defendants deny these allegations and claim that they committed no wrongdoing. A court decision has not yet been issued as to who is right.”
Who can claim a payment?
People who purchased the natural vanilla ice cream between April 21, 2016 and August 14, 2024 can apply for monetary compensation. Although the court has not yet reached a conclusion on the authenticity of the vanilla flavoring, the defendant companies agreed to establish an $8.85 million settlement fund for those who purchased the product.
Consumers will receive one dollar for each container of Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream purchased within that period, as long as they present proof of purchase. Those with valid receipts will be able to claim for all purchases they can prove. Without proof of purchase, consumers can still make up to eight claims, which could result in a payment of up to $8 per person.
Additionally, the court ruled that, within one year of finalizing the agreement, Breyers must modify the ice cream formula to eliminate any vanilla ingredients that do not come from the vanilla plant. Those interested in making a claim can do so by visiting vanillaicecreamsettlement.com.
What is a class action lawsuit?
A class action lawsuit is a type of legal action in which the rights and claims of many people are decided in a single case. These lawsuits typically involve a group of people who have suffered similar injuries as a result of the actions of an entity, usually a large corporation. By joining together, the plaintiffs are able to form a stronger case.
Additionally, class action lawsuits help reduce legal costs, since it would be too expensive for a single individual to take on a powerful corporation in court. A class action lawsuit begins when a lead plaintiff groups together other people who have been similarly harmed. Group members join voluntarily.
The lead plaintiff, along with other members, typically selects a specialized attorney to represent the entire class. This lawyer is responsible for presenting the necessary documents to certify the class. Once approved, anyone who believes they are entitled to compensation can join the group. After the class action is certified, members can also decide whether or not they want to participate.
