So now somebody is suing Kellogg’s because there is no fruit in Froot Loops. Better yet, he is suing on all of our behalf. Is it crazy? Maybe, but let’s look beyond the headline. I am not a big fan of these lawsuits, though I find some merit in the concept. Call me crazy? That is what many called the lawyers who began suing the tobacco industry many years ago. Those suits have resulted in dramatic changes in society and billions of dollars changing hands, some of which you benefit from. That’s right, you. The tobacco industry has given billions of dollars to each and every state. It was supposed to go to tobacco prevention, etc. Most of it ends up in the coffers of the state and is spent just like any other general revenue. Likewise, anti-smoking laws exist today which would have been laughed at ten years ago. Let’s admit it, society’s attitude towards smoking has changed dramatically. I give lawyers the credit, not good-natured tobacco companies.
So while I think this guy’s complaint is a bit far-fetched, I do find merit in the law’s role changing society. Similar food suits were being considered and/or brought against McDonalds and other fast food companies. The very well funded PR/lobby machine of the fast food industry put a quash to that, even going so far as to pass national and state laws preventing such actions. The intended benefit of the lawsuit came about anyways. We are now much more aware of the nutritional values of our food. Perhaps that is what this guy is trying to accomplish, even if it seems rather obvious that there is a very limited, if any, nutritional value with respect to fruit intake in these cereals. Doubtful our children know that, however. And since they are the intended beneficiary of this lawsuit, perhaps it is not so bad that it is brought. I do not think it really has much to do with money for the Plaintiff, even if he is asking for it.
Tom Paris, Chicago Attorney
312/759-1600
312/201-1436(fax)
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