Truvia is not so True! False “Natural Sweetner” Claims wring settlement

Cargill has agreed to pay $6.1 million to settle a consumer class action accusing the company of marketing its Truvia sweetener as natural when it actually contains largely synthetic and chemically produced ingredients, according to documents signed by a Hawaii federal judge.

Under the deal, the agribusiness company will pay $6.1 million into a settlement fund to be distributed to the members of a nationwide class who purchased any of the Truvia products during a six-year period that ended in July, as well as $1.8 million in attorneys’ fees that will be deducted from the settlement fund. Class members who file claims will be entitled to receive up to $45 in cash or $90 in vouchers, according to the settlement, which was finally approved by U.S. District Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi on Nov. 26.

The company has also agreed to certain label changes that will clarify its “Nature’s Calorie-Free Sweetener” and “Truvia Natural Sweetener provides the same sweetness as two teaspoons of sugar” statements, add language directing consumers to a new website with frequently asked questions, remove the phrase “similar to making tea” on all Truvia packaging, and update its Truvia website to better explain to consumers the manufacturing processes involved.