Leeman Files Prop 65 Suits Against Makers of Maple Flavor, Caramel Color

Dr. Whitney Leeman, a client of The Chanler Group, commenced three Proposition 65 private enforcement actions today against manufacturers, distributors, and sellers of food extracts, flavors, and colorings containing 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI or 4MI), a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer.  Products such as imitation maple flavor and caramel color, containing 4-MEI, are being offered for sale in California without the health hazard warning required by Proposition 65.  4-MEI is used in the manufacture of caramel coloring, giving food and beverage items like colas their distinctive brown colors.

Companies named in the lawsuits include McCormick & Company, Adams Extract & Spice, and Farmer Bros. 

See below for a complaint filed against one of the companies.