Publix Defeats Label Suit Over ‘Naturally Flavored’ Cereal Bars

Publix Super Markets Inc. escaped, for now, a proposed class action alleging its apple- and strawberry-flavored cereal bars were deceptively advertised as “naturally flavored” when they contained DL-malic acid.

None of the packaging statements say “the bars lack artificial flavor or that the bars include only flavor from a ‘natural’ strawberry or apple,” Judge Steven Merryday of the US District Court for the Middle District of Florida said Wednesday.

Lead plaintiff Jerkerris Griffin said he overpaid for the bars as a result of the allegedly deceptive label. Griffin said he buys food products with ingredients known for health benefits and ...