Wheat Thins Buyers Settle Labeling Dispute with Mondelez

Wheat Thins Buyers Settle Labeling Dispute with Mondelez

Introduction

Wheat Thins purchasers have reached a $10 million settlement in a lawsuit against Mondelez International, which alleged deceptive labeling of the crackers as "100% Whole Grain" despite containing corn starch, a refined grain. The settlement, filed in San Francisco federal court, awaits judicial approval.

Refunds for Purchasers

Under the settlement, eligible consumers can receive refunds ranging from $4.50 to $20.00, depending on their purchase history and whether they retained receipts. The agreement also prohibits Mondelez from using the "100% Whole Grain" claim on Wheat Thins packaging unless properly qualified.

Allegations of Misleading Labels

According to the October 2022 complaint, whole grains are healthier than refined grains. Plaintiffs argued they would not have bought or would have paid less for Wheat Thins had they known the labeling was misleading. The settlement covers U.S. purchasers of various Wheat Thins flavors labeled "100% Whole Grain" since October 13, 2018.

Allocation of Remaining Funds

Any unclaimed settlement funds will be donated to UCLA’s Resnick Center for Food Law and Policy and Feeding America, a nonprofit hunger relief organization.

Legal Fees and Mondelez’s Response

The plaintiffs' attorneys may request up to $3.33 million in legal fees from the settlement fund. Mondelez denied any wrongdoing and did not immediately respond to requests for comment.