A federal judge has allowed a lawsuit against spice giant McCormick & Co. to proceed, challenging the size of its ground pepper tins. Watkins Inc., a smaller competitor, claims McCormick reduced the pepper quantity by 25% while maintaining the same tin size, alleging a deceptive visual strategy. Watkins, using transparent containers, argues McCormick’s non-see-through tins mislead customers. The lawsuit accuses McCormick of “slack-filling,” violating consumer protection laws. McCormick defends itself, stating the tin indicates the quantity, but Watkins asserts the tiny font makes it deceptive. Watkins alleges this marketing ploy harmed their sales, prompting a class-action lawsuit by disgruntled customers. These legal battles underscore the importance of corporate trustworthiness and the potential consequences of deceptive practices in the marketplace.
