Multiple lawsuits recently alleged that Canada Dry ginger ale was not the real thing because it did not contain “real ginger” as the label proclaimed.
*MOUSE PRINT:
The ingredients statement says that it contains “natural flavor” but tests done by the plaintiffs indicate that the soda did not contain key components one would normally find in ginger root. Further analysis concluded that it only contained two parts per million of ginger extract.
In the settlements agreed to last month, Canada Dry is still allowed to say “made with real ginger” but only if that statement is modified with words like “flavor” or “extract.”
Examples of permissible label claims: “real ginger taste,†“made with real ginger extract,†“real ginger flavor,†“flavor from real ginger extract,†and “natural ginger flavor.†The Permanent Injunction shall also include court-approved use of “ginger extract,†“natural ginger flavor extract,†“natural ginger extract,†“natural ginger flavor,†or “ginger flavor†in the label ingredient line.
Would you catch those nuances?
Consumers who purchased Canada Dry ginger ale are entitled to modest compensation. Without proof of purchase, you can get 40 cents a can/bottle, up to $5.40. With sales receipts, you can get reimbursed at the same rate for up to 100 units.
After the settlement becomes final, you can file a claim here.
Noting all those “Examples of permissible slippery gobbledygook,” just HOW does the court NOT appear complicit in furthering the deception on the part of Canada Dry, rather than looking out for the consumer? How many buyers are really going to now pick up on the qualifying words “taste, extract, flavor?” Horse manure.
What percentage of ginger did ginger ale contain historically? I feel like anything called “ginger ale” should contain some real ginger, and it should not be called out on the packaging. On the other hand, ginger ales made without ginger should have to disclose this fact with something like “artificially flavored” on the packaging.
Maybe “hint of ginger” is more like it?
So how many people actually saved the grocery receipts??
How many people actually knew this was an actual lawsuit??
One thing I know — the plaintiffs’ lawyers will do well. The settlement agreement says they will get up to $1.2 million.
Also, Marty you got it right when you said the court is complicit in continuing the deception,
I don’t buy ‘sugared’ drinks period. I also make my own ‘Ginger Ale’. I buy club soda or seltzer water & add fresh ginger (which I always have in the freezer). It’s easy, plus I do not add sugar.
Wow! For several years back in the day Canada Dry ginger ale was the only soda I drank. But who saves receipts for soda? Most of the cans actually cost me less tha $.40. With that kind of return on investment, I could have paid for my retirement. Receipts…..damn.