A Costco customer has filed a proposed class-action lawsuit against the retailer, alleging that its Kirkland Signature Five Cheese Tortelloni with Parmigiano Reggiano is falsely marketed as containing 'no preservatives'. The complaint, lodged in a California federal court on 29 April, claims the product includes manufactured citric acid, which the plaintiff argues is an industrial preservative.
The lawsuit, brought by Sydney Turner, states that the front packaging prominently displays a 'no preservatives' claim, but the ingredient list on the back includes citric acid produced through industrial fermentation using genetically modified black mould (Aspergillus niger). Turner purchased the frozen pasta in December 2023 and asserts she would not have bought it, or would have paid less, had she known the true ingredients.
The complaint distinguishes manufactured citric acid from naturally occurring citric acid found in fruit, arguing that the former is chemically processed and not commercially feasible to extract from natural sources. It also cites studies linking the manufactured additive to potential health risks.
Turner seeks class-action certification for a nationwide group of consumers who bought the product, along with subclasses in specific states. The lawsuit demands damages, legal fees, costs, and a jury trial. This case follows a separate class-action filed against Costco in March over alleged retention of tariff refunds.
