Amazon, Walmart, Others Peddle Counterfeit Kona Coffee, Suit Says (1)

Amazon.com, Walmart Inc., Kroger Co., and others falsely pass off ordinary coffee as “Kona” coffee, deceiving consumers and hurting Kona coffee farmers, a new proposed class suit alleges.

The companies’ false designation of the coffee’s origin violates the Lanham Act, according to the suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington.

Seemingly Hawaii-made products such as beer and snack foods also have triggered consumer class suits.

Kona coffee, renowned for its distinctive flavor and aroma, is one of the most famous and desired specialty coffees in the world, the suit alleges. Authentic ...