Coffee Mate Creamer Trans Fat Class Action Lawsuit
If you're a fan of coffee, chances are that you've used Coffee Mate creamer at some point. This popular brand of creamer has been around for decades, and it's a staple in many coffee drinkers' homes. However, you may be surprised to learn that Coffee Mate creamer has been the subject of a class action lawsuit due to its trans fat content.
What is Trans Fat?
Trans fat is a type of fat that is created when liquid oils are turned into solid fats. This process is known as hydrogenation, and it's often used to increase the shelf life of food products. Trans fat is also used to enhance the flavor and texture of foods.
However, trans fat is known to be unhealthy. It raises bad cholesterol levels and lowers good cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
The Coffee Mate Creamer Class Action Lawsuit
In 2012, a class action lawsuit was filed against Nestle, the makers of Coffee Mate creamer. The lawsuit claimed that Coffee Mate creamer contained trans fat, even though the label indicated that it was trans fat-free.
The plaintiffs in the case argued that they were misled by the labeling and that they wouldn't have purchased the product if they had known it contained trans fat. The lawsuit sought damages for the cost of the product, as well as compensation for any health problems caused by consuming trans fat.
Settlement of the Lawsuit
In 2014, Nestle agreed to settle the lawsuit for $9 million. As part of the settlement, Nestle agreed to remove the trans fat from Coffee Mate creamer and to change the labeling on the product to accurately reflect its ingredients.
The settlement also required Nestle to establish a $2.5 million fund to reimburse consumers who purchased Coffee Mate creamer between 2010 and 2014.
What You Should Know About Trans Fat
Trans fat is a type of fat that is found in many processed foods. It's important to read labels carefully and to avoid products that contain trans fat.
Some common sources of trans fat include:
- Fried foods, such as french fries and fried chicken
- Baked goods, such as cookies and cakes
- Snack foods, such as chips and crackers
- Margarine and other spreads
If you're concerned about your health, it's best to avoid trans fat altogether. Look for products that are labeled as trans fat-free, and choose whole foods that are naturally low in fat.
Conclusion
The Coffee Mate creamer class action lawsuit is a reminder that companies must be honest in their labeling and advertising. The case also highlights the dangers of trans fat and the importance of reading labels carefully.
If you're a Coffee Mate creamer user, be sure to check the label to make sure that it's trans fat-free. And if you're concerned about your health, consider choosing natural, whole foods that are free from trans fat.