Ocean Spray Labeling Suit OK’d as Class Action

Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc. must face a class suit by California consumers alleging it deceptively markets drinks as having no artificial flavors when they contain synthetic flavoring agents for tartness.

Crystal Hilsley alleged she and other Californians overpaid for a dozen Ocean Spray juice products that included fumaric acid and d-l malic acid as ingredients.

Issues common to the class dominate, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California said in certifying a class of Californians who bought Ocean Spray Cran Apple and other drinks after Jan. 1, 2011.

In particular, Hilsley offered a way to prove how ...